Podcast appearances and mentions of jason fung

When motivation rises, intensity often follows — but more isn't always better. Episode #247

What if the reason fat loss feels impossible is not willpower, not discipline, and not “eat less, move more” but your hormones, your hunger, and your body's fat thermostat? In this episode of The Ben Azadi Show, Ben welcomes back Dr. Jason Fung to break down why most weight loss advice fails long term and why obesity and type 2 diabetes are not calorie problems, they are hormonal problems. Dr. Fung explains how insulin acts as a fat storage signal, why fasting insulin and C-peptide can reveal metabolic dysfunction years before A1c rises, and how hunger is the real problem behind overeating. He also introduces key ideas from his new book, The Hunger Code, including the fat thermostat, the “three whys,” and the three types of hunger: physical, emotional, and conditioned. You will walk away with a clearer framework for sustainable fat loss that works with human physiology instead of fighting it. Key Topics Covered Why “eat less, move more” has an extremely high long-term failure rate Calories vs hormones: why the body can store or burn the same calories differently Insulin's role in fat storage and fat burning shutdown Insulin resistance as “overflow,” not “under-fuel” Why fasting insulin and C-peptide matter earlier than A1c The fat thermostat concept and why metabolism adapts fast Hunger hormones and satiety signals (including GLP-1 related discussion) The “three whys” framework for getting to the root cause of weight gain The 3 types of hunger: homeostatic, hedonic, and conditioned hunger Why ultra-processed foods reshape hunger and behavior Why low insulin matters more than “low carb” for many people How environment and community influence obesity risk and habits Resources & Special Offer Dr. Jason FungWebsite: https://www.doctorjasonfung.com/ Book: The Hunger Code (Release Date: March 3) Pre-order the book through Dr. Jason Fung's website to receive exclusive bonuses, including a free masterclass and additional resources. Follow Ben Azadi

If you wake up in the middle of the night alert and wide awake, it's likely a nighttime cortisol spike, not insomnia. When blood sugar drops overnight, your adrenal glands release cortisol to raise it, shutting down melatonin and waking you up. This can lead to: Poor sleep quality Increased belly fat Lower testosterone Higher inflammation Most people are deficient in magnesium, the key mineral that helps regulate cortisol. Protocol: 300–400 mg elemental magnesium 60–90 minutes before bed Use glycinate, threonate, or taurate forms Also: Get morning sunlight Eat dinner 3 hours before bed Avoid heavy carb spikes at night This isn't a sleep problem.It's a hormone timing problem. Fix the mineral. Stabilize blood sugar. Anchor your circadian rhythm.

Full Show Notes: bengreenfieldlife.com/hungercode On this episode, I got to geek out with Dr. Jason Fung and unravel why calorie counting alone doesn’t explain our weight struggles. Dr. Fung used jaw-dropping stats—like nearly identical calorie consumption between nations with wildly different obesity rates—to illustrate how hormones, digestion, and even the microbiome play a much bigger role than just numbers. We also broke down the three types of hunger—homeostatic, hedonic, and conditioned—and explored how ultra-processed foods hijack our biology. Dr. Fung shared that ditching those foods is his top strategy for conquering hunger, while I revealed how staying busy and using GLP-1s can help curb appetite during fasting or travel. Dr. Jason Fung is a physician (kidney specialist), researcher and New York Times best-selling author currently practicing in Toronto, Canada. trained in Los Angeles and Toronto and currently practices as a nephrologist (kidney specialist). His books, including The Obesity Code, The Complete Guide to Fasting, The Diabetes Code and The Cancer Code have challenged conventional thinking about these diseases, and introduces dietary strategies to manage them. Episode Sponsors: LVLUP Health: I trust and recommend LVLUP Health for your peptide needs as they third-party test every single batch of their peptides to ensure you’re getting exactly what you pay for and the results you’re after! Head over to lvluphealth.com/BGL and use code BEN15 for a special discount on their game-changing range of products. Truvaga: Balance your nervous system naturally with Truvaga's vagus nerve stimulator. Visit Truvaga.com/Greenfield and use code GREENFIELD30 to save $30 off any Truvaga device. Calm your mind, focus better, and recover faster in just two minutes. Quantum Upgrade: Recent research has revealed that the Quantum Upgrade was able to increase ATP production by a jaw-dropping 20–25% in human cells. Unlock a 15-day free trial with the code BEN15 at quantumupgrade.io. Formula IQ: Recuperate IQ by Formula IQ is a comprehensive copper supplement designed to support mitochondrial energy, iron balance, and metabolic health by pairing bioavailable copper with essential cofactors your body needs for proper utilization, which is especially crucial if you've been under chronic stress or supplementing with high-dose zinc. Try it at formulaiq.com and use code BEN for 10% off.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shot Targets Clogged Arteries Blocked arteries are not the main cause of heart attacks. Unstable plaque driven by oxidation, inflammation, and high insulin is. In this episode, Ben explains the 5 key drivers of arterial damage: Oxidized LDL Endothelial inflammation Low nitric oxide High triglycerides Chronically elevated insulin He shares a simple 60-second vascular support shot designed to: Support nitric oxide Lower insulin spikes Reduce inflammation Protect LDL from oxidation Key ingredients include beetroot or lemon, apple cider vinegar, ginger or turmeric, and high polyphenol fresh pressed olive oil. Small daily habits shape long-term heart health. Precision over panic.

I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Jason Fung today. He is a trained nephrologist and world-leading expert on intermittent fasting and metabolic health. He has authored multiple books, including the New York Times best-seller, The Obesity Code, The Diabetes Code, and, more recently, The Hunger Code.   In our conversation today, we unpack the obsessive focus on the calories-in, calories-out model, which is neither practical nor effective. We explore the root causes behind the narrow-minded thinking that calories alone drive obesity, differences between types of hunger and conditioned responses, how hormones affect other hormones, and lessons about GLP-1s. We examine the critical importance of fiber and protein, and offer clarity around carbohydrates. We also cover the impact of meal timing, sleep, and circadian biology, the fat thermostat and sympathetic tone, nutrition, stress, and mindful eating, and dive into the issue of ultra-processed foods. Join us for an insightful conversation that challenges conventional wisdom and offers a nuanced and sustainable approach to understanding hunger, metabolism, and long-term health. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: “Calories in, calories out” framework is technically correct, but practically useless How the homeostatic, hedonic, and conditioned hunger types differ Dr. Fung shares his take on GLP-1 medications How fiber stimulates natural GLP-1 production Processed and natural carbohydrates produce vastly different glucose and insulin responses. Avoid eating late-night meals! Complex relationship between hunger, hormonal regulation, and sleep quality Hormones that drive body fat regulation  How bitter foods suppress appetite and enhance satiety Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow  Cynthia's Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Jason Fung On his website Instagram and YouTube Dr. Fung's latest book, The Hunger Code, will come out in March. Pre-order on Amazon!

This Daily Habit Flushes Dangerous Fat in Days In this episode, Ben breaks down how your morning routine could be causing you to recycle inflammatory fat instead of eliminating it. Key Highlights: Your liver packages inflammatory fats and toxins into bile every morning. If bile flow is sluggish, those toxins get reabsorbed through a process called enterohepatic circulation. Industrial seed oils and excess omega-6 fats can stay in your fat tissue for up to 680 days. Bile is your fat exit highway. Clear flow equals elimination. Sluggish flow equals recirculation. The 3 Morning Mistakes: Not hydrating first thing, which thickens bile Adding sugar and inflammatory creamers to coffee Drinking moldy, low-quality coffee that stresses the liver The Solution: Clean coffee, when high quality and mold-free, has been shown to: Stimulate gallbladder contraction Increase bile release Improve bowel motility Lower liver enzymes Reduce fatty liver risk Simple Morning Protocol: Hydrate before caffeine Drink clean coffee (black or with healthy fats, no sugar) Allow natural elimination Support bile flow with bitter foods like lemon, arugula, and ginger Ben also shares a free 7-day fat-burning guide to help reset metabolism and reduce visceral fat. Bottom line:Your morning coffee can either trap inflammatory fat or help flush it. Support your liver, stimulate bile flow, and stop recycling what your body is trying to eliminate. New customers get 20% off with code BENAZADI at https://bit.ly/4qQLU3q  FREE GUIDE: The World's Easiest Breakfast Diet To Melt Fat HERE - https://bit.ly/4ryX1yC

Dr. Jason Fung is a nephrologist, researcher, New York Times bestselling author, and co-founder of The Fasting Method. Show partners: LMNT - Claim your free LMNT Sample Pack with any purchase by using this link Troscriptions - 10% off your first order by using the code "JESSE" at checkout Jaspr - Save $300 off your Jaspr air scrubber by using this link Show notes: https://jessechappus.com/693

What really happens when you try to quit sugar — and why perfection isn't required to experience freedom. Episode #246

What if the real lever for lasting weight loss isn't calories, but hunger itself? We sit down with Dr. Jason Fung to unpack why willpower-based diets fail and how hormones like insulin, cortisol, GLP-1, and sympathetic tone quietly set your “fat thermostat.” Instead of fighting biology, we explore how to work with it—lowering insulin, raising satiety, and removing the triggers that keep appetite stuck in overdrive.We dig into the three types of hunger that shape daily choices: homeostatic (physiological signals like ghrelin and leptin), hedonic (reward and emotion), and conditioned (learned cues from cars, screens, and social settings). Jason explains how ultra-processed foods exploit these systems by maximizing pleasure and minimizing fullness, why sleep and stress can spike cravings through cortisol, and how fasting strategically restores access to stored energy. We also discuss the difference between visceral and subcutaneous fat, why some people appear “skinny fat,” and how testing insulin, A1C, and C‑peptide gives a truer metabolic picture than BMI alone.From the failures of low-fat, calorie-counting eras to the surprising benefits seen with GLP-1 agonists, the throughline is clear: control hunger, and calories take care of themselves. You'll leave with three golden rules to start today—ditch ultra-processed foods, use fasting windows to lower insulin, and build a supportive circle that normalizes real food. It's a humane, science-driven framework that helps you stop battling your body and start resetting your internal settings.If this conversation helped reframe your approach to weight and health, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review to help others find it.https://www.doctorjasonfung.com/Continue this conversation on SubStack: https://robertlufkinmd.substack.com Get 120 Biomarkers for $99 and CT Calcium scans anywhere in the US. https://www.vitalsvault.com/ Lies I Taught In Medical School : Free sample chapter- https://www.robertlufkinmd.com/lies/ Web: https://robertlufkinmd.com/X: https://x.com/robertlufkinmdYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/robertLufkinmd Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertlufkinmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlufkinmd/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@robertlufkinThreads: https://www.threads.net/@robertlufkinmdFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertlufkinmd Bluesky: ...

In this episode, Gina sits down with renowned nephrologist and bestselling author Dr. Jason Fung for a powerful conversation that challenges everything we've been taught about weight loss. Together, they unpack why the old “calories in versus calories out” model falls short and shift the focus to hormones, insulin, and how the body actually decides whether to store or burn fat. Dr. Fung shares insights from his new book, The Hunger Code, explaining the different types of hunger that drive us to eat and why sustainable weight loss has far less to do with willpower and far more to do with understanding how your body works. It's a science-backed, myth-busting conversation that will change the way you think about food, metabolism, and long-term weight loss.Find Dr. Jason Fung:www.doctorjasonfung.com@drjasonfungThe Hunger Code: Resetting Your Body's Fat Thermostat in the Age of Ultra-Processed Food - Available March 3rd.To learn more about The Livy Method, visit livymethod.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You can be thin, active, and still carry dangerous visceral fat around your organs. Unlike subcutaneous fat you can pinch, visceral fat is hidden deep in the abdomen and strongly linked to heart disease, insulin resistance, fatty liver, and early mortality. More cardio is not always the answer. Visceral fat is hormonally driven and protected by insulin and cortisol. Chronic stress and long-duration cardio can actually increase cortisol, making it harder to lose stubborn belly fat. In this episode, Ben shares a simple strategy: 25 squats twice per day. Squats activate the largest muscle groups in the body, improve insulin sensitivity, and stimulate GLUT-4 transporters to pull glucose out of the bloodstream and into muscles. Lower insulin levels mean less protection for visceral fat. You'll learn: The difference between subcutaneous and visceral fat Why cortisol promotes abdominal fat storage How muscle contraction sends a fat-burning signal Why resistance training is crucial after age 45 What to expect in the first days and weeks Simple squat modifications for all fitness levels Why stacking nutrition, sleep, and recovery matters The squat is the ignition.The lifestyle stack determines the acceleration. Ben also shares details about his 14-Day Metabolic Reset and a free 7-day drug-free belly fat protocol to help you lower insulin, preserve muscle, and reclaim metabolic control. Remember: You are not trying harder. You are sending the right signal.

You're taking 600 IU of vitamin D.Your labs say “normal.”But you could still be deficient. In this episode, Ben reveals why the official vitamin D recommendations were based on preventing rickets, not optimizing immunity, metabolism, muscle, or brain health. Independent researchers reanalyzed the original RDA data and found the required intake for adequacy was dramatically higher — yet the guidelines barely changed. Vitamin D is not just a vitamin. It functions like a steroid hormone and impacts: Immune regulation Inflammation control Insulin sensitivity Muscle protein synthesis Brain function Low vitamin D is strongly associated with insulin resistance, and since 93% of Americans are insulin resistant, this could be a massive blind spot. Ben also explains: Why “normal” lab ranges may still mean deficiency Why optimal levels should be above 60 ng/mL How obesity lowers circulating vitamin D Why magnesium and vitamin K2 are required for proper activation Why toxicity fears are overblown compared to widespread insufficiency You'll also learn the simple 3-step plan to optimize vitamin D safely: Smart midday sun exposure Intelligent supplementation with D3 + K2 + magnesium Regular testing and cofactor support If you're over 45, insulin resistant, or struggling with stubborn inflammation, this episode could be a game changer. You don't have a weak immune system.You may just have an under-supported one. Get 20% off with code FREEDOM at :https://bit.ly/46irN6O  FREE GUIDE: The World's Easiest Breakfast Diet To Melt Fat HERE - https://bit.ly/4ryX1yC

In this episode, Ben exposes the metabolic truth about “100% fruit juice” and why it behaves more like liquid sugar than real fruit.

Fat loss stalled? Low energy? It might not be calories — it could be fatty liver. In this episode, Ben explains how fatty liver silently slows metabolism long before symptoms appear, and why it is one of the most overlooked reasons for stubborn weight gain. You'll learn: • How liquid sugar and constant snacking overload the liver• Why insulin is the real fat-storage hormone• The power of a simple 12–16 hour fasting window• How walking after meals can blunt insulin spikes by over 30 percent• Why sleep is essential for restoring liver insulin sensitivity• The truth about fruit, alcohol, and dietary fat• Why coffee can either heal or harm your liver depending on quality Ben also breaks down how to reverse fatty liver naturally with a simple 3-step protocol: remove the overload, restore insulin signaling, and support detox. Plus, he shares a free egg-based protocol designed to help you lose the last 10 pounds while improving liver health. If your metabolism feels stuck, this episode will help you understand why — and what to do about it. Share this with someone who needs it and remember to practice Vitamin G: gratitude. New customers get 20% off with code BENAZADI at https://bit.ly/4rV6vEE  FREE GUIDE: How To Lose 1 Pound Of Fat Per Day HERE - https://bit.ly/4j45Yxa

Dr. Jason Fung joins Jorge Cruise to break down why midlife belly fat isn't a “calories problem.” It's a hunger + hormones problem. You'll learn how insulin drives weight gain, how time-restricted eating can work (especially for midlife women), the biggest fasting mistakes, and how to think about GLP-1 meds as a tool (with pros/cons). We also dig into conditioned hunger, social eating, thyroid concerns, and why protein + healthy fats matter when you're trying to control hunger for the long term.Chapters 00:00 Welcome Back and New Beginnings04:42 Understanding Midlife Changes10:14 The Journey to Time-Restricted Eating24:44 Hormones and Weight Management38:32 Navigating Midlife for Women49:01 Understanding Diet: The Role of Protein and Healthy Fats52:15 The Impact of Processed Foods and Insulin on Weight Gain55:36 Midlife Women and Intermittent Fasting: Common Mistakes01:00:58 The Psychology of Eating: Conditioned Hunger and Social Influences01:03:23 Addressing Thyroid Issues and Pre-Diabetes in Weight Management01:06:24 Navigating GLP-1 Injections: A Tool for Weight Loss01:20:45 The Importance of Managing Hunger Over Calories01:29:03 The Hunger Code: Insights from the New BookLinks + ResourcesJorge Cruisehttps://www.jorgecruise.com/https://www.youtube.com/@jorgecruiseDr. Jason Funghttps://www.thefastingmethod.com/https://www.youtube.com/@DrJasonFungFREE Primal Kitchen Mayo ($12 value) with $30+ purchasehttps://www.PrimalKitchen.com/jorgecruise80% off – Jorge Cruise Coaching Club (First 100 Founders)Mondays 5PM PT on Google Meet + Early Copy of "Zero Hunger Plan"https://www.JorgeCruise.com10% off – Aeira Chicken Bone Broth Powder12g Protein. Zero Carbs. Pure Collagen. One Cup = Hours of SimmeringCode: JORGECRUISE10https://DrinkAeira.com

In this episode, Ben breaks down a powerful comparison study of the most popular diet styles and reveals the one approach that preserved muscle, lowered insulin, and accelerated fat loss. What You'll Learn: Why low-fat, calorie restriction, plant-based low protein, and low-protein keto diets fail long-term The real reason fat loss gets harder over 40 Why protein signaling — not calories — determines metabolic success How muscle loss silently slows your metabolism The difference between losing weight and losing fat The Winning Strategy: Strategic fasting + protein cycling 18-hour daily fast 6-hour eating window 1 gram of protein per pound of ideal body weight Focus on high-quality, digestible protein This approach: Preserves lean muscle Lowers insulin Burns visceral fat Protects metabolism Key Takeaway: Your body isn't broken.It's responding to the signals you give it. When you combine fasting with proper protein intake, fat loss stops being a fight — and becomes a natural response.

Intermittent fasting is the most Googled diet-related term on the planet, except everyone who does it will tell you it's not a diet. It's a protocol. An eating window. A lifestyle. An optimization hack. Definitely, absolutely, under no circumstances a diet. You just don't eat for sixteen hours. Totally different.In this episode, we trace IF from ancient religious fasting traditions through its secularization and commodification, afrom Martin Berkhan's Leangains forum and its tagline ("fuck breakfast") to Michael Mosley's BBC documentary, Hugh Jackman's Wolverine physique, and Jack Dorsey describing his weekend-long fasts as "hallucinating" like that's a selling point. We walk through how a Nobel Prize in yeast biology became a justification for skipping breakfast, why Jason Fung's The Obesity Code scored 31% on scientific accuracy and still became the IF bible, and how the fasting app market turned one simple rule into a multimillion-dollar industry.Then we get into what the science actually says. We break down the claimed mechanisms — metabolic switching, autophagy, insulin sensitivity — and look honestly at where the evidence lands. Spoiler: the mechanisms are real, but the confidence far outpaces the human data. The first direct measurement of autophagy in humans was published in 2025. Mouse metabolism runs seven times faster than ours. And the landmark Liu et al. trial in the New England Journal of Medicine found that time-restricted eating is no better than regular caloric restriction for weight loss. You're not metabolic switching. You're just eating less.We also dig into what IF means for active people (no performance benefit across any exercise type, real risk of under-fueling and RED-S, and a protein distribution problem that no eight-hour window can solve), what the AHA, ADA, NIA, and ISSN actually say about it, and the robust research linking IF to eating disorder behaviors across all genders — including a landmark study showing that fasting was a stronger predictor of binge eating disorder than any other form of dietary restraint. Fasting is listed in the DSM-5 as a compensatory behavior. Just because you give it a different vocabulary doesn't mean your body experiences it differently.Your body is smarter than any fasting app. Also, breakfast slaps..This Episode's Sponsors:rabbit — Code YDSFEB for 10% offOsmia — Code YDS20 for 20% offTailwind — Code YOURDIET20 for 20% offMicrocosm Coaching — Book a free consultationFull references, episode archive, and our advertising ethics policy at yourdietsuckspodcast.comHosted by: Zoë Rom & Kylee Van Horn, RDN

Why shorter fasts often stop working once insulin resistance is established — and what therapeutic fasting is actually designed to do. Episode #245

DR. JASON FUNG,  author of  The Hunger Code, writes to provide a path forward for anyone who has struggled with their relationship with food. His medical career, which focuses on obesity and type 2 diabetes care, has naturally branched into to an understanding of types of hunger and how to support our diet for a […]

Join Dr. Jason Fung and Dr. Robert Kiltz to uncover the truth about insulin resistance, fasting, and weight loss. Learn why calorie counting fails and how to reverse type 2 diabetes naturally.Get your copy of Dr. Jason Fung's new book: The Hunger Code: Resetting Your Body's Fat Thermostat in the Age of Ultra-Processed Food: https://a.co/d/09sTQ2yDSign up now for a Intro Coaching call with one of our certified Kiltz Health Coaches: https://calendly.com/d/cxdf-5ft-z2k/kiltz-health-one-on-one-coaching?month=2026-02

In this episode, Ben Azadi explains the five metabolic levels of fat loss and why most people feel stuck despite dieting, exercising, and eating “clean.” Fat loss is not about willpower or calories. It is about hormones, inflammation, and metabolic signaling. Many people fail because they are using the wrong strategy for the metabolic level their body is currently in. Ben breaks down each level, from the Frozen Phase, where the body is in survival mode and unable to burn fat, to Fat-Burning Freedom, where fat loss becomes effortless and sustainable. You will learn: Why caloric restriction and excessive cardio backfire How insulin resistance and inflammation block fat loss Why eating clean is not enough without proper timing and protein How intermittent fasting, strength training, and recovery reset metabolism What it truly takes to lose 25–50+ pounds and keep it off This episode reframes fat loss as a metabolic progression and provides clarity for anyone who has struggled with plateaus, rebounds, or frustration on their health journey.

Most people unknowingly sabotage their metabolism and liver health first thing in the morning. In this episode, Ben explains why common “healthy” breakfasts spike insulin, shut down fat burning, and block liver repair before the day even begins. You'll learn what actually happens in your body overnight, why morning insulin sensitivity is so fragile, and how sugary or carb-heavy breakfasts lock you into fat storage mode all day long. Ben breaks down the hidden sugar content in foods like smoothies, oatmeal, cereal, yogurt, and juice, and explains why this is a timing issue, not a willpower issue. Ben also shares a simple liver-reset morning protocol, including when to delay breakfast, when to eat, and what to eat to support fat burning, stable energy, and better labs. He answers common questions about fasting, muscle loss, women's hormones, smoothies, and why traditional breakfast advice is outdated. If you struggle with stubborn belly fat, morning brain fog, energy crashes, or worsening labs despite “doing everything right,” this episode will change how you think about breakfast forever.

In this episode, Ben Azadi reveals why dessert isn't the real problem—insulin is. He breaks down the science behind a surprising fat-burning, muscle-building dessert made with hard-boiled eggs and explains how the right nighttime nutrition can actually support fat loss, improve insulin sensitivity, reduce cravings, and enhance overnight recovery. Ben walks through each ingredient in this metabolic mousse, explaining how protein, healthy fats, minerals, and strategic sweetness work together to stabilize blood sugar, calm stress hormones, and keep your metabolism burning while you sleep. He also answers common questions about calories, fasting, insulin resistance, and eating at night. This episode challenges outdated diet myths and offers a practical, biology-based strategy for anyone who struggles with nighttime cravings, stubborn belly fat, or metabolic resistance.

Why calorie counting fails — and why hunger, not willpower, drives eating behavior. Episode #244

Weak grip strength is not a normal part of aging. It is often an early warning sign of metabolic dysfunction. In this episode, Ben explains how issues like insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, mitochondrial decline, and mineral depletion can weaken nerve signaling and muscle function, especially in the hands. Grip strength is one of the strongest predictors of longevity, independence, and overall metabolic health. You'll learn why people can look fit yet still struggle with weak hands, cramping, or fatigue, and how these symptoms often appear years before serious disease. Ben breaks down the four main root causes behind grip weakness and shares a simple daily protocol to restore strength. The episode covers insulin resets, nutrition strategies, mineral support, protein intake, grip training, and the role of creatine in improving strength and muscle signaling. Ben also explains why chronic stress and inflammation accelerate metabolic decline and how gratitude can positively impact metabolism. This episode offers practical, actionable steps you can start today to rebuild grip strength, improve energy, and protect long-term metabolic health. CLICK To Get Your Creatine - MYOXCIENCE Use Coupon Code "FREEDOM" for 25% off - https://bit.ly/4qTgABP 

Yellow teeth are not just a cosmetic issue. They are often a metabolic signal linked to saliva pH, gut health, liver function, and mineral balance. Most whitening strips and bleaching products do not fix the root cause. They temporarily whiten teeth while weakening enamel, increasing porosity, disrupting the oral microbiome, and causing rebound staining over time. Teeth are porous, like a hard sponge. When saliva becomes acidic, stains bind more easily, enamel weakens faster, and whitening results do not last. Common internal drivers of yellow teeth include acid reflux or silent GERD, gut dysbiosis, liver congestion, mineral deficiencies, chronic dehydration, and inflammation. This episode breaks down a natural, root-cause whitening protocol that supports enamel instead of damaging it. Key strategies include using baking soda and activated charcoal safely once per week, oil pulling with coconut oil, and restoring saliva pH through nutrition and mineral intake. You will also learn which foods support healthy saliva pH, which foods and drinks actively damage enamel, and why frequent snacking worsens staining even with healthy foods. The core message: your smile is metabolic, not cosmetic. Fix the internal imbalance, and whitening becomes natural and long-lasting.

In this episode, Ben Azadi reveals the hidden risks of Ozempic and GLP-1 weight loss drugs that are rarely discussed. While these medications may lead to quick weight loss, Ben explains why much of that loss comes from muscle, not fat, and how this can slow metabolism and increase long-term fat regain. You'll learn the critical difference between weight loss and true fat loss, why muscle is essential for metabolic health, and how appetite suppression can quietly sabotage hormones, energy, and recovery. Ben breaks down the four real drivers of weight gain: insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, gut dysfunction, and nutrient depletion. This episode also covers why Ozempic is not a moral or willpower issue, but a metabolic signaling problem, and why obesity is a hormonal condition, not a personal failure. Ben shares a science-backed alternative approach focused on lowering insulin naturally, preserving muscle through resistance training, and healing the gut to restore hunger signals. If you or someone you love is using Ozempic or considering it, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and a sustainable path to real metabolic health without dependency on drugs.

You don't have a willpower problem. You have an insulin problem. In this episode, Ben Azadi breaks down nine foods commonly marketed as “healthy” that are secretly spiking insulin, blocking fat burning, and keeping belly fat stuck, even if you're eating clean or cutting calories. You'll learn why fat loss is driven by hormones, not calories, and how insulin shuts down your body's ability to burn stored fat. Ben explains how foods like whole wheat bread, fruit juice, instant oatmeal, protein bars, low-fat yogurt, almond milk, agave, granola, and whole grain cereal can all create metabolic gridlock. More importantly, he shares simple food swaps that lower insulin faster than fasting, reduce cravings, stabilize energy, and restore metabolic flexibility. This episode also challenges the calories-in vs calories-out myth, explains why food quality matters more than calorie counting, and reinforces a core truth of metabolic health: you don't lose weight to get healthy, you get healthy to lose weight. You'll also hear about: How insulin locks fat storage in place Why fructose targets the liver and increases visceral fat The role of inflammation in stubborn weight gain Why breakfast sets your fat-burning or fat-storing mode for the day Simple swaps that can flatten your belly within a week

A practical conversation about why goals don't create change — daily actions do. Episode #243

Step into the world of metabolic health and fasting as we embark on a captivating journey with the renowned Canadian clinical educator, Megan Ramos! In an era when chronic illness and obesity have become alarmingly prevalent, and dieting has become a lifelong struggle for many, Megan is on a mission to revolutionize our understanding of metabolic health. Known for her expertise in therapeutic fasting and low-carb diets, she co-founded the revolutionary Fasting Method alongside the renowned Dr. Jason Fung and co-authored the bestselling book Life in the Fasting Lane. Now, she returns with her latest work, delving into the untold stories of women and fasting.  In today's captivating discussion, Megan and I explore the staggering statistics that reveal a nation plagued by chronic illness and weight issues, where even the average person has tried 126 diets in their lifetime. Megan shares her groundbreaking insights on women and fasting, unveiling the truth behind misdiagnoses, the myths surrounding intermittent fasting, the role of macros and insulin secretion, and the profound impact of the pandemic on our hormones, sleep, and stress levels.  Prepare yourself for a thought-provoking episode as we tackle pressing questions from listeners, covering the dawn effect, gout, insomnia, and invaluable strategies for achieving fasting success! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: My journey with PCOS Why does body composition matter so much? PCOS, the number one endocrine disorder in Westernized countries Common myths about intermittent fasting The fertility aspect of postmenopausal women The slippery slope of perimenopause Is fasting just an extreme form of calorie restriction? The impact of sleep and stress on glucose and insulin levels How to integrate intermittent fasting into your lifestyle Magnesium supplementation for insulin resistance How to deal with gout Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community (The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow)  Cynthia's Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause supplement line Connect with Megan Ramos ⁠The Fasting Method⁠ Find Megan on social media @Megan J. Ramos Purchase a copy of⁠ ⁠⁠Life in the Fasting Lane⁠  Purchase a copy of⁠ ⁠⁠The Essential Guide to Intermittent Fasting For Women⁠ Previous Episodes Featuring Megan ⁠Ep. 116 – Using Intermittent Fasting to Reverse Chronic Illnesses – with Megan Ramos⁠ ⁠Ep. 188 – Troubleshooting Your Fasting Method with Megan Ramos

Waking up in the middle of the night to pee is not normal, even if it only happens once. This episode reveals why nighttime urination is an early metabolic warning sign, not a bladder or prostate issue. Ben explains how insulin resistance, blood sugar spikes, cortisol, and disrupted hormones interfere with deep sleep, fat burning, and brain detoxification. When sleep is interrupted, belly fat increases, hormones fall out of balance, and the brain's nighttime cleaning process shuts down. You'll learn the five main metabolic causes behind nighttime urination, including late-night eating, alcohol, electrolyte imbalance, high cortisol, and fluid shifts in the body. Ben also shares simple changes you can start tonight to sleep through the night again. This episode breaks down why most doctors miss this signal, how insulin resistance can exist years before diabetes, and how fixing metabolic signals can restore sleep, energy, fat loss, and long-term health. If you're waking up to pee, feeling wired but tired, or struggling with stubborn belly fat, this episode could change everything.

Lori Morton Biography As of this podcast, I'm 68 years old. I'm a daughter, sister, aunt, great aunt, and dog mom of two delightful Shih Tzus. My struggle with weight began in middle school. I grew up with the advent of fast food. When I was growing up, I tried to keep up with my brothers when it came to eating. Fast food, candy, and desserts were my downfall. After graduating from college, I accepted a position as a 5th-grade teacher. Teaching and careers in education are rewarding, but also stressful. There was always food in the teachers' lounge, or parents would send you treats. I responded to the stress of teaching by eating, and as a result,t my battle with weight grew over the years. I happily retired in 2015 from my last position as an elementary school principal. After retiring, I was determined to shed the weight I had gained over my 30 years in education. Losing close family members to Diabetes, Dementia, and Sarcoidosis has been the catalyst for my weight loss and fitness journey. My older brother, who had type 1 diabetes since the age of 13, died at the age of 52 from colon cancer. The death of my younger, seemingly fit and healthy 47-year-old sister was a wake-up call. Also, watching my mother slowly deteriorate from Alzheimer's disease added to my trauma. She died two years after my sister. To make sure I was there for my family and my sister's children in particular, I rejoined WW in 2016 and followed the program successfully for several years, but was frustrated that I couldn't get past a plateau that lasted about 1 ½ years. During that time ,I was yo-yoing up and down 10-15 pounds. From the beginning of the pandemic, in February 2020, to April 2021, I gained 35 pounds. That's when I decided to get back on track. After resetting, I lost only a few pounds before my weight plateaued again. I was worried that I had a problem with my metabolism. My frustration led me to research other ways to lose weight. I was of the opinion that if you do what you've always done, you will get what you've always gotten. While researching obesity and how to lose weight, I found information about intermittent fasting and Dr Jason Fung's book, The Obesity Code. Reading his book, I had many aha moments. Everything he described was my experience, so I decided to give IF a try, beginning in June 2021. I also searched for how to implement Intermittent Fasting to maximise my results. That's when I found and read Gin Stephen's book, Fast, Feast, Repeat. After that, I searched for fasting groups on Facebook and the Podcast app. That's when I found Graeme Currie's The Fasting Highway group, book, and podcast. I initially lost 59.5+ pounds (22.6 kg) through intermittent fasting. At the time, I thought I had mastered my struggles with obesity. My old nemesis, stress, reentered my life about three years ago with the unexpected death of my best friend, which was followed a few weeks later by the passing of my dog of 17 years. Once again, I used food to comfort myself. By far, 2025 was the most stressful year of my life. My dear 90-year-old father began exhibiting Dementia and was no longer able to live independently. My brother and I welcomed him into our homes on a rotating basis and were his primary caregivers. As a result, I regained almost all of the weight I lost. Caregiving was an honour and privilege, but it is one of the most stressful experiences one could face. Throughout these challenges, I kept resetting my fasting journey. Sometimes I was successful and sometimes not. I have learned a lot through my journey and am on the path to improving my health. Intermittent fasting works! I am of the mindset that I'm losing weight for the last time and will no longer comfort myself with food. To Join Our Patreon Community click here.www.patreon.com/thefastinghighwaywebsite-www.thefastinghighway.com

Coffee can be one of the healthiest drinks in the world or one of the most damaging, depending on how and when you drink it. In this episode, Ben breaks down 7 hidden coffee dangers that silently disrupt your gut, liver, hormones, sleep, and fat-burning ability, plus simple fixes to make coffee work for your metabolism instead of against it. What You'll Learn: Why drinking coffee on an empty stomach can spike cortisol and slow fat loss How artificial creamers, seed oils, and sweeteners damage gut bacteria and overload the liver The overlooked danger of mold toxins (mycotoxins) in most coffee beans Why pesticides like glyphosate in coffee can worsen leaky gut and insulin resistance How drinking coffee too early disrupts circadian rhythm and causes energy crashes Why afternoon coffee (even decaf) sabotages deep and REM sleep How to choose clean, mold-free, organic coffee for better energy and metabolic health Key Takeaway: Coffee isn't the problem. Dirty coffee habits are.With the right timing, ingredients, and sourcing, coffee can be anti-inflammatory, liver supportive, and fat-burning.

Blood sugar issues are not caused by sugar alone. In this episode, Ben Azadi explains how mineral deficiencies are a hidden driver behind insulin resistance, prediabetes, and type 2 diabetes. You'll learn the five essential minerals your body needs to regulate blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, and support long-term metabolic health. This episode breaks down why medication-focused approaches often miss the root cause and how restoring mineral balance can lead to better glucose control, energy, cravings, and fat loss. What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy blood sugar problems are more about mineral deficiency than carbohydratesHow insulin signaling depends on proper mineral availabilityThe connection between gut health and blood sugar spikesWhy modern soil depletion contributes to widespread mineral deficienciesHow minerals act as the communication system of metabolism The 5 Minerals That Help Lower Blood Sugar Fulvic AcidSupports mineral absorption at the cellular level. Improves insulin receptor sensitivity, glucose transport into muscles, pancreatic health, and mitochondrial energy production. Humic AcidSupports gut health by reducing inflammation, improving microbiome balance, and slowing carbohydrate absorption to flatten blood sugar spikes. Trace MineralsChromium, zinc, selenium, and manganese help activate insulin signaling pathways, support insulin production, and reduce insulin resistance. MagnesiumOne of the most commonly deficient minerals in people with insulin resistance. Supports insulin sensitivity, lowers cortisol, reduces cravings, and stabilizes blood sugar. PotassiumAn insulin-sparing electrolyte that improves glucose storage in muscles, balances sodium, lowers cortisol, and reduces insulin overproduction.

In this episode, Ben Azadi reveals a simple 10-minute daily ritual that helps activate stem cells, support fat loss, improve energy, and slow biological aging. Instead of extreme workouts or stimulants, Ben explains how the body responds to precise biological signals that restore cellular repair. You'll learn why aging is not about getting older, but about being under-repaired, and how declining stem cell signaling, NAD+ levels, and mitochondrial function drive fatigue, fat gain, and brain fog, especially after age 35. Ben breaks down three easy daily rituals: A morning light and movement stack to activate fat-burning and stem cell repair A midday cellular reset that supports NAD+ levels, focus, and metabolic energy without caffeine crashes An evening fasted wind-down routine that enhances deep sleep, brain detox, and overnight repair He also explains why recovery, sleep, and cellular energy matter more than willpower, and how consistency with simple habits can dramatically improve metabolic health and longevity. Cellular Reset With WonderFuel CLICK HERE - https://benazadi.com/wonderfeel 

In this episode, Ben Azadi reveals the one daily habit he unknowingly practiced for over 20 years that slowly damaged his health without obvious symptoms: chronic low-grade inflammation. Ben explains why inflammation is often missed by conventional medicine, how it silently disrupts metabolism, hormones, gut health, and fat loss, and why “normal” lab results do not equal optimal health. He breaks down the five biggest mistakes that fueled inflammation, including relying on supplements instead of real food, falling for detox and juice cleanses, constant snacking on “healthy” foods, long-term nutrient deficiencies from strict plant-based eating, and cooking with inflammatory seed oils. Ben shares the simple framework that helped him reverse inflammation and restore metabolic health, called the One Plate Reset. This approach focuses on high-quality protein, stable fats, reduced insulin stimulation, clear eating windows, and eliminating snacking. The episode also addresses common questions around carbs, fasting, genetics, aging, vegetable oils, and blood sugar, while emphasizing that healing begins when inflammatory signals are removed. Ben closes by outlining his 14-day belly fat burning plan and reinforcing the core message from his book Metabolic Freedom: the body is designed to heal when interference is removed.

In this episode of the Metabolic Freedom Podcast, Ben Azadi explains why heart disease is not caused by cholesterol, but by silent inflammation and damage to the arterial lining. Ben breaks down how plaque actually forms, why standard cholesterol labs often miss real cardiovascular risk, and how insulin spikes, oxidized LDL, chronic stress, and gut-derived toxins quietly damage blood vessels over time. He introduces a science-backed “artery repair plate” designed to restore endothelial function and calm inflammation using four key foods: Arugula or beets to boost nitric oxide and improve blood flow Wild-caught salmon to reduce inflammation and stabilize plaque Fermented vegetables to lower endotoxins and support gut-artery signaling Extra virgin olive oil to prevent LDL oxidation and improve arterial flexibility The episode also covers which lab markers actually matter, common foods and habits that damage arteries, and a simple three-day arterial reset protocol to support long-term heart health. Ben emphasizes that the body is not broken. When the right signals are present and inflammation is removed, healing becomes natural.

Dr. Jason Fung is a Canadian nephrologist and leading voice in metabolic health, best known for making the science of fasting and insulin resistance simple, practical, and empowering. Through his books, lectures, and clinical work, he's helped thousands rethink weight loss, type 2 diabetes, and long-term health by focusing on hormones, not just calories. Dr. Fung is the co-founder of The Fasting Method and a sought-after educator on metabolic health. In this episode, Drs. Brian, Tro, and Jason talk about… (00:00) Intro (05:46) The new dietary guidelines and food pyramid (08:02) The Huger Code and understanding hunger (13:19) Why the calories-in/calories-out model for weight-loss is ineffective (17:44) Hedonic hunger (19:06) Conditioned hunger (24:41) Hormones and calories (28:15) Insulin and fat-burning (31:47) The process of digestion and how every step of the process impacts hormones and weight (38:08) While ultra-processed foods are SO much more obesogenic than whole foods (39:53) Food addiction and effective treatment (46:19) The 3 Golden Rules of Weight Loss (49:25) Dr. Fung's new book and masterclass! (Links below) (51:55) Human biology and flavor variety (57:09) Fasting and satiety (01:04:43) Hubris, pride, and ignorance in medicine (01:09:15) Outro For more information, please see the links below. Thank you for listening! Links: Please consider supporting us on Patreon: https://www.lowcarbmd.com/ Dr. Jason Fung: The Fasting Method: https://www.thefastingmethod.com/ Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B01BT8K6FK Website/Books: https://www.doctorjasonfung.com/ iG: https://www.instagram.com/drjasonfung/ X: https://x.com/drjasonfung YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoyL4iGArWn5Hu0V_sAhK2w The Hunger Code Pre-Order/Masterclass: https://www.doctorjasonfung.com/gift-with-purchase-offer Dr. Brian Lenzkes:  Website: https://arizonametabolichealth.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrianLenzkes?ref_src=twsrc^google|twcamp^serp|twgr^author Dr. Tro Kalayjian:  Website: https://toward.health Twitter: https://twitter.com/DoctorTro IG: https://www.instagram.com/doctortro/ Toward Health App Join a growing community of individuals who are improving their metabolic health; together.  Get started at your own pace with a self-guided curriculum developed by Dr. Tro and his care team, community chat, weekly meetings, courses, challenges, message boards and more.  Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/doctor-tro/id1588693888  Google: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=uk.co.disciplemedia.doctortro&hl=en_US&gl=US Learn more: https://toward.health/community/

Alzheimer's doesn't begin with memory loss. It begins years earlier with metabolic dysfunction. In this episode, Ben Azadi reveals why Alzheimer's is now being referred to as “Type 3 Diabetes” and how insulin resistance, inflammation, and chronic stress silently damage the brain long before symptoms appear. You'll learn why genetics are not your destiny, how the brain becomes starved for fuel despite high blood sugar, and why waiting for symptoms is already too late. Ben breaks down the science behind hippocampal shrinkage, reduced glucose uptake in the brain, and the role of cortisol in cognitive decline. This episode introduces the 15-Minute Brain Reboot, a simple daily protocol designed to protect and rebuild brain health: Daily fasting to switch the brain's fuel from sugar to ketones Zone 2 movement to increase blood flow and grow new brain cells Gratitude (“Vitamin G”) to lower stress hormones and protect neurons Ben also answers common questions about genetics, brain games, fasting safety, supplements, and why prevention isn't emphasized in conventional medicine. The takeaway is clear: you're not broken, you're early. With consistent daily habits, your brain can heal, adapt, and stay sharp for decades to come.

In this episode, Ben Azadi reveals why stubborn belly fat is not a calorie issue or a willpower problem but a visceral fat problem driven by inflammation, stress hormones, and faulty metabolic signals. Ben explains the critical difference between subcutaneous fat and visceral fat and why traditional approaches like excessive cardio, crunches, caloric restriction, and chronic OMAD fail to eliminate deep belly fat. Drawing on over 200 years of Japanese metabolic wisdom, he shares a simple yet powerful three-pillar approach to melting visceral fat naturally: Deeply colored foods that activate fat-burning genes Green tea catechins that increase fat oxidation and block fat absorption Moderate-intensity movement using the 75% talk-test rule You'll also learn: How to identify visceral fat with a simple self-test Why bottled green tea sabotages fat loss Why fat loss is about signals, not discipline How “thin on the outside, fat on the inside” (TOFI) applies to many people How fast visceral fat can drop once the right signals are restored This episode delivers a clear, actionable plan to reduce inflammation, protect metabolism, and restore your body's natural fat-burning ability without starvation or punishment.

In this episode, Ben Azadi shares a surprising 30-day experiment where he ate a small amount of raw honey before bed and tracked its effects on sleep, stress, cravings, energy, and fat loss. Ben explains how chronic low-carb dieting, fasting, or undereating carbohydrates at night can elevate cortisol, disrupt sleep, and stall fat loss, especially for people over 40. He breaks down why raw honey is metabolically different from sugar, highlighting its enzymes, polyphenols, antioxidants, and lower insulin response shown in human studies. You'll learn how low nighttime liver glycogen can trigger cortisol spikes and middle-of-the-night wake-ups, and how a teaspoon to tablespoon of raw honey before bed may support liver glycogen, reduce stress hormones, improve REM and deep sleep, and stabilize mood and energy. Ben shares his exact protocol, week-by-week results, who should avoid or modify this approach, how to choose high-quality raw honey, and whether this strategy affects ketosis. He also answers common questions about insulin, inflammation, fructose, melatonin, and long-term use. This episode reframes honey not as a sugar problem, but as a strategic metabolic tool to improve sleep, reduce stress, and support overall metabolic health.