Podcasts about Obesity medicine

Hey, Survivor! In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Regina Ragasa, a triple board-certified physician in Family Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine, and Obesity Medicine.  We're talking about the gap between health knowledge and real-life behavior change. We explore why trauma survivors often struggle to implement what they already know about health, and how shame, stress, and survival responses can interfere with sustainable lifestyle change. During our conversation, Dr. Ragasa explains her LIVEN Method—a framework centered on Listening, Imperfection, Validation, Empowerment, and Normalization—to help clinicians and patients build trust and create lasting change through human connection.  She also talks about the “humble plate” vs. celebratory foods, and how cultural food traditions and identity come into play. If you've ever struggled with knowing what to do but not being able to follow through, this episode is for you.  Connect with Dr. Regina Ragasa: Instagram: @CaliWellnessDoc Website: CaliWellnessDPC.com Know who you're dealing with.  Know who you are.

Can I restart my GLP-1? The answer is yes — but it requires a strategic plan.  In this episode I'm walking you through exactly what happens to your body when you restart a GLP-1, why the timing of your break matters more than you think, how to restart safely without landing yourself in misery, the biggest mistakes I see patients make, and how to get back on track without shame or guilt. Restarting doesn't have to mean starting completely over. But how you restart matters. Listen now!   Episode Highlights: Why restarting at your previous dose will make you seriously sick What happens to your hunger, cravings, and fullness signals when you restart How long you've been off determines your restart dose The critical question that changes everything: weeks vs. months off Why weight regain after stopping is biology, not failure 3 practical strategies to minimize side effects and rebuild tolerance How to stay mentally on track without shame or comparison   Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd   About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

Free course: Improve your metabolic healthGet our free email course on how glucose, nutrition, exercise, sleep, and measurement can help you build habits that support better energy and long-term health: ⁠⁠https://levels.link/wnl⁠What are GLP-1 drugs actually doing in the body, who are they for, and why might some people want to think twice before treating them like a six-month shortcut?For years, obesity treatment focused largely on behavior: eat less, move more, stay motivated. Yet many people lost weight only to regain it. According to obesity medicine pioneer Dr. Robert Kushner, that wasn't a failure of willpower. It was a failure to fully understand the biology driving weight regulation.In this episode of A Whole New Level, Mike Haney sits down with Kushner, one of the leading figures in obesity medicine and a lead investigator on the landmark STEP trials, to discuss how GLP-1 medications are changing the field. He explains why these drugs may be the first treatments capable of helping patients “fight biology with biology,” why appetite regulation appears to work differently in different people, and why many patients describe a dramatic reduction in food noise after starting treatment.But this conversation goes beyond how the drugs work. Kushner also addresses one of the biggest questions facing obesity medicine today: who should actually take these medications? He explains why obesity specialists evaluate far more than a number on the scale, why someone hoping to lose a modest amount of weight may want to think carefully before pursuing treatment, and why successful long-term health still requires changes that no medication can provide.They also discuss obesity as a disease, the promise and limitations of telehealth prescribing, and why maintaining weight loss often requires something deeper than motivation: a shift in identity.

You stopped your GLP-1 and now you're wondering can I just restart where I left off? Why am I so hungry again? Why are the side effects back? Did the medication stop working? These are questions I hear all the time in my practice. And the answer is not as simple as picking back up where you stopped. In this episode I am walking you through exactly what happens biologically when you stop a GLP-1, why restarting feels different than when you first started, how to restart safely, the common mistakes I see patients make, and how to get back on track mentally without shame. A pause does not erase your progress. But how you restart matters more than you think. Listen now! Episode Highlights: Why stopping your medication is not failure and why your biology is not your weakness What actually happens to your hunger, cravings, and fullness signals when you go off GLP-1s Why restarting at your old dose can land you in the emergency room How long is too long to be off and what dose to restart at based on your break The 3 most common restart mistakes  Practical tips to minimize side effects and rebuild tolerance the right way How to stay mentally on track without shame or comparison to your first journey Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

A patient finally decides to prioritize their health. They wait weeks for an appointment. We talk, we plan, and they leave with hope. Then the pharmacy calls with a price tag over $1,000 a month and that hope disappears. If that's happened to you, I made this episode for you. Because what most patients don't know is that there are real, legitimate ways to make this work and I'm breaking all of them down today. An insurance denial is not a verdict on your health or your worth. It just means we need to get strategic. Listen now!   Episode Highlights: Why I never let my patients stop at the first insurance "no" The Zepbound Lilly Direct self-pay program and what it actually costs The Wegovy NovoCare self-pay option and its introductory pricing Oral GLP-1 medications — who they're right for and why they may surprise you Manufacturer coupons, GoodRx, and savings tools most patients walk past How to appeal a denial and exactly what documentation can move the needle Why thinking long-term changes everything about affordability   Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd   About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

What If...What if the reason your weight feels impossible to manage has nothing to do with willpower, discipline, or how hard you are trying? What if the system that was supposed to help you has actually been working against you this whole time, and the missing piece was never the prescription at all? Dr. Meghan Garcia-Webb has been asking that question for years, and what she found will change the way you think about your body, your health, and the stories you have been carrying about both.The Summary & Guest IntroDr. Meghan Garcia-Webb is triple board certified in Internal Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine, and Obesity Medicine, and she runs a first of its kind concierge practice that combines cutting edge weight medicine with life coaching because she knows the prescription is only part of the story. After years of watching the same conversations fail her patients over and over again, she realized that the information was never the problem. The missing piece was always the mindset. In this episode, she and Erica go deep on GLP-1 medications, the one thing blocking most women's results, why the healthcare system has been failing women long before Ozempic hit the headlines, and what it actually takes to build a relationship with food and your body that lasts.Inside the EpisodeThe One Big Thing: It is not your meal plan, your medication, or your macros. Dr. Meghan says the single most important shift women can make is recognizing that they are fully autonomous in their health decisions, even inside a system that was not designed to support them.The System Was Never Built for Us: From childbirth narratives to menopause myths to SSRIs prescribed as a first response to a woman's very reasonable distress, Dr. Meghan breaks down the specific ways women have been mistreated and misled in weight medicine for decades.The Truth About GLP-1 Medications: If you are only hearing the highlight reel about Ozempic and Wegovy, this is the conversation you actually need. Dr. Meghan prescribes these medications every single day and she has things to say about lifelong commitment, wildly varied side effects, and what happens when insurance stops covering them.Why Cortisol, Sleep, and Chronic Stress Are Running the Show: The go-go-go productivity lifestyle that most women in corporate are surviving is not just burning them out. It is biologically working against their ability to maintain a healthy weight. Dr. Meghan explains exactly how and why.Perfectionism and the Fresh Start Trap: Monday diets, January reset plans, the all-or-nothing death spiral. Dr. Meghan names the pattern that keeps women stuck in a cycle of starting over and never actually arriving, and she offers a completely different way to track progress.Untangling Diet Culture: Before any protocol or prescription, Dr. Meghan starts by finding out what each woman is actually carrying, the food rules, the body expectations, the shame she inherited. The work begins there.Give Yourself the Gold Star: Nobody is coming to applaud you for the 10-minute workout, the lunch you actually sat down to eat, or the doctor's appointment you finally scheduled. Dr. Meghan makes the case for why you need to start celebrating yourself now, without anyone else's permission.Resources & Links

What If...What if the reason your weight feels impossible to manage has nothing to do with willpower, discipline, or how hard you are trying? What if the system that was supposed to help you has actually been working against you this whole time, and the missing piece was never the prescription at all? Dr. Meghan Garcia-Webb has been asking that question for years, and what she found will change the way you think about your body, your health, and the stories you have been carrying about both.The Summary & Guest IntroDr. Meghan Garcia-Webb is triple board certified in Internal Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine, and Obesity Medicine, and she runs a first of its kind concierge practice that combines cutting edge weight medicine with life coaching because she knows the prescription is only part of the story. After years of watching the same conversations fail her patients over and over again, she realized that the information was never the problem. The missing piece was always the mindset. In this episode, she and Erica go deep on GLP-1 medications, the one thing blocking most women's results, why the healthcare system has been failing women long before Ozempic hit the headlines, and what it actually takes to build a relationship with food and your body that lasts.Inside the EpisodeThe One Big Thing: It is not your meal plan, your medication, or your macros. Dr. Meghan says the single most important shift women can make is recognizing that they are fully autonomous in their health decisions, even inside a system that was not designed to support them.The System Was Never Built for Us: From childbirth narratives to menopause myths to SSRIs prescribed as a first response to a woman's very reasonable distress, Dr. Meghan breaks down the specific ways women have been mistreated and misled in weight medicine for decades.The Truth About GLP-1 Medications: If you are only hearing the highlight reel about Ozempic and Wegovy, this is the conversation you actually need. Dr. Meghan prescribes these medications every single day and she has things to say about lifelong commitment, wildly varied side effects, and what happens when insurance stops covering them.Why Cortisol, Sleep, and Chronic Stress Are Running the Show: The go-go-go productivity lifestyle that most women in corporate are surviving is not just burning them out. It is biologically working against their ability to maintain a healthy weight. Dr. Meghan explains exactly how and why.Perfectionism and the Fresh Start Trap: Monday diets, January reset plans, the all-or-nothing death spiral. Dr. Meghan names the pattern that keeps women stuck in a cycle of starting over and never actually arriving, and she offers a completely different way to track progress.Untangling Diet Culture: Before any protocol or prescription, Dr. Meghan starts by finding out what each woman is actually carrying, the food rules, the body expectations, the shame she inherited. The work begins there.Give Yourself the Gold Star: Nobody is coming to applaud you for the 10-minute workout, the lunch you actually sat down to eat, or the doctor's appointment you finally scheduled. Dr. Meghan makes the case for why you need to start celebrating yourself now, without anyone else's permission.Resources & Links

It's In The News, where we bring you the top diabetes stories and headlines happening now. Top stories this week: Dexcom shares details of its next generation CGM, T1D and GLP-1 studies, weight loss management on GLP-1 medications updates, all-in-one CGM and pump, and more! Announcing Community Commericals! Learn how to get your message on the show here. Learn more about studies and research at Thrivable here Please visit our Sponsors & Partners - they help make the show possible! Omnipod - Simplify Life All about Dexcom  All about VIVI Cap to protect your insulin from extreme temperatures The best way to keep up with Stacey and the show is by signing up for our weekly newsletter: Sign up for our newsletter here Here's where to find us: Facebook (Group) Facebook (Page) Instagram Check out Stacey's books! Learn more about everything at our home page www.diabetes-connections.com  Episode transcript: XX Dexcom announces some features of it's next generation CGM – the G8. We've been talking about this with CEO Jake Leach for a while now – it will be a 50% smaller with what they're calling advanced sensing capabilities. According to Leach, G8 will adapt to the physiologic variability of each user. It has additional technology built in, based on a new silicon chip design and algorithm. 15 day wear is now the baseline for all Dexcom sensors moving forward. At launch the G8 will only measure glucose but the plan is for a multi-analyte version to follow. That would measure ketones and potassium. Ketones we know – but potassium is very important for people with kidney and possible for people taking some diabetes meds. It's an interesting space to watch.. btw, analyte is just a medical word for the specific thing you're measuring – the target of the test you're running. we're going to hear that word a lot I think..   Looks like an FDA submission for the G8 next year.. with an outside the US launch the following year. https://www.drugdeliverybusiness.com/dexcom-unveils-next-gen-g8-cgm/ XX Glucotrack has submitted its implantable continuous blood glucose monitor (CBGM) for FDA IDE, that's investigational device exemption and would enable the company to initiate a U.S. clinical study for the fully implantable technology. Rutherford, New Jersey-based Glucotrack's device features no on-body external component. The company aims to offer it for three years of continuous, accurate blood glucose monitoring for a more convenient, less intrusive solution. Unlike traditional CGMs that measure glucose in interstitial fluid, the CBGM measures glucose levels directly from the blood. The implant goes five centimeters within the subclavian vein. Glucotrack's active implantable device has a small battery and some electronics that go just under the skin in the pectoral region. The location of the implant is not in a major vessel, but the implant can measure real-time glucose levels as pulsatile blood flows over the tip of the sensor. https://www.drugdeliverybusiness.com/glucotrack-submits-long-term-implantable-cbgm-fda-ide/ XX PharmaSens today announced the publication of data from the first clinical study evaluating its all-in-one insulin patch pump offering. The all-in-one pump pairs the Niaa Essential insulin patch pump with the SynerG continuous glucose monitor (CGM) sensor developed by Pacific Diabetes Technologies. However, this system would be one device that features both the pump and CGM technology.   PharmaSens and SiBionics also have a collaboration aimed at developing the all-in-one solution. They are jointly developing the next-generation Niia insulin patch pump with a SiBionics CGM. PharmaSens expects a second feasibility study in the second quarter to evaluate the next-generation pump with SiBionics' CGM.   PharmaSens says the clinical feasibility study of Niia demonstrated for the first time ever that the combined offering is, in fact, feasible. It believes its device addresses the need for alternatives to multi-device diabetes management. systems.   Aggregated MARD for the investigational device came in at 11.6%. A MARD target of less than 10% is considered ideal for CGM devices, but PharmaSens said that, in the context of the early feasibility study, the results were encouraging and provide evidence supporting the development of an all-in-one system. https://www.drugdeliverybusiness.com/pharmasens-efs-insulin-patch-pump-cgm/ XX   XX ViCentra launches the newest version of the Kaleido pump system in Europe. This is that small colorful pump, with Diabeloops algorithm and the Dexcom G7. It'll be in Germany and the Netherlands later this summer. https://hellokaleido.com/vicentra-announces-commercial-launch-of-new-smartphone-controlled-kaleido-automated-insulin-delivery-patch-pump-system/--   XX Diabeloop just got CE Mark approval for DBLG2 integrations – it's latest AID platform the company has kicked off the gradual European launch of the technology. It currently offers DBLG2 as a smartphone application on Android, with iOS integration coming soon. As you just heard, it's integrated with kaleido and the company says it plans to make additional configuration for DBLG2 with alternative pumps "available soon." Running on a user's smartphone, DBLG2 works as a self-learning algorithm. It continuously analyzes glucose data, calculates insulin needs in real time and automatically adjusts delivery. https://www.drugdeliverybusiness.com/diabeloop-fda-next-gen-algorithm-g7/   XX Among adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D), the initiation of GLP-1-based therapy was associated with a lower risk for all-cause death, several cardiovascular outcomes, all-cause hospitalisations, and hypoglycaemia, without a higher risk for diabetic ketoacidosis.   METHODOLOGY: Researchers in Greece conducted a retrospective cohort study utilising real-world data from a global health research network to evaluate the association between GLP-1-based therapy and cardiovascular and renal outcomes in adults with T1D. A total of 4088 patients receiving GLP-1-based therapies (median age, 43 years; 34.3% men) were propensity score matched with an equal number of patients not receiving the treatment. The risk for hypoglycaemia was lower with GLP-1-based therapy (hazard ratio, 0.72; P = .021); however, the risk for diabetic ketoacidosis did not differ significantly between the two groups. https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/glp-1-drugs-tied-cardiovascular-benefits-t1d-2026a1000fbx   XX Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) today announced detailed results from two late-phase trials showing that people with obesity maintained their weight loss long term with either Foundayo or lower-dose Zepbound after switching from higher doses of injectable incretin therapy. The findings from SURMOUNT-MAINTAIN and ATTAIN-MAINTAIN, were presented at the 33rd European Congress on Obesity (ECO) and published in The Lancet and Nature Medicine, respectively.   "Weight regain remains one of the biggest challenges in obesity care, and is often the result of treatment interruptions that cause biology to work against patients, undoing the progress they've made," said Louis J. Aronne, M.D., FACP, DABOM, founder and Chair Emeritus of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, former president of The Obesity Society, Fellow of the American College of Physicians, world-renowned obesity specialist and Lilly consultant. "These medicines can be used for long-term maintenance today, and results from SURMOUNT-MAINTAIN and ATTAIN-MAINTAIN provide additional evidence of their potential when switching from higher doses of injectable incretin therapy." https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lillys-foundayo-and-lower-dose-zepbound-helped-people-maintain XX Scientists in Sweden have developed a more reliable way to create insulin-producing cells from human stem cells. These lab-grown cells not only respond strongly to glucose but were also able to restore blood sugar control when transplanted into diabetic mice. When transplanted into diabetic mice, the cells gradually restored the animals' ability to regulate blood sugar. Long way to go, as we say with most of these mice studies. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/05/260505234620.htm XX Interesting look at how the body controls sugar storage – apparently this finding challenges long-standing biology concepts and could open new directions for disease treatment. Published in Nature, the study describes a potential method for directly reducing glycogen, the stored form of sugar in the body. These scientists discovered that glycogen can be directly regulated by ubiquitin, a protein best known for marking damaged proteins for recycling or removal. The study is the first to show that ubiquitin can regulate glycogen in humans, overturning more than 50 years of scientific understanding. Excess glycogen is also associated with more common health problems, including diabetes, obesity, liver disease, and heart disease.       https://scitechdaily.com/scientists-just-rewrote-biology-hidden-mechanism-could-transform-diabetes-treatment/ XX A new Oklahoma law will give parents the option to have their children screened for Type 1 Diabetes.   The measure passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in the Legislature and takes effect Nov 1. Oklahoma consistently ranks among the states with the highest rates of diabetes and diabetes-related deaths. The law gives parents access to antibody testing that can detect risk years before symptoms develop, helping families take preventive action and avoid emergency room visits. https://journalrecord.com/2026/05/11/oklahoma-law-expands-access-type-1-diabetes-screening/ XX More to come including a new study trying to figure out why some people are more likely to develop diabetes, a look at cannabis and preventing metabolic disorders, and XX   A National Institutes of Health (NIH)-funded study has identified key differences in human pancreatic islet cells that may help explain why some people are more likely to develop diabetes. Researchers found that the mix of hormone-producing cells in the pancreas varies widely from person to person, and that variation plays a central role in how the body regulates blood sugar. The study involved a deep dive into islet cell function that is linked to donor traits associated with observable characteristics, or phenotype, such as sex, race and ethnicity, as well as genetic information, or genotype, including predicted ancestry and genetic risk for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The findings highlight that islet cell composition, rather than the physical size and shape of islets, is a key factor in regulating hormone release. The team found that the makeup of pancreatic islets plays a major role in how effectively they release insulin and glucagon — key hormones that regulate blood glucose. Islets with a higher proportion of insulin-producing beta cells showed stronger insulin secretion in response to various stimuli, while higher levels of alpha and delta cells were generally linked to reduced insulin output. In addition, the researchers found that islet hormone secretion is affected by donor traits, such as sex, race and ethnicity and their genetic makeup, including ancestry predicted from genetic testing and genetic risk for type 2 diabetes. Combined, the findings of the study have significant implications for understanding the factors that may predispose people to diabetes. "This study is the tip of the iceberg," said Dr. Evans-Molina. "We hope this dataset becomes useful to the entire diabetes research community and that researchers use it to answer questions about the genotype-phenotype correlation within these data."   https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-funded-study-maps-human-pancreatic-islet-cells-offering-new-clues-diabetes-risk XX XX XX Research published recently in JAMA Network Open offers illuminating evidence suggesting there is a positive association between GLP-1 agonists—drugs commonly used to treat obesity and diabetes—and better outcomes among breast cancer patients.   "This study suggests that GLP-1 drugs may offer protective benefits potentially improving survival and recurrence risk in some female patients with breast cancer – whether this is related to weight control, improve cardiovascular health or other mechanisms remains to be studied," said study senior author Bernard F. Fuemmeler, Ph.D., MPH, associate director for population sciences and the Gordon D. Ginder, M.D., Chair in Cancer Research at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center.   Breast cancer patients who are also obese or have type 2 diabetes experience more aggressive cancer growth and worse outcomes. Prior studies have shown that weight loss treatment and surgery following a breast cancer diagnosis are associated with improved heart health and increased survival.   What are GLP-1 drugs? Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). Approved to treat type 2 diabetes in 2005 and weight management in 2021. Impacts on breast cancer survival and recurrence are still unclear. Since 2020, the use of these drugs has increased dramatically, where approximately 12% of Americans have used GLP-1s for weight loss, according to a RAND report.   The research findings Through a retrospective cohort study examining the electronic health records of more than 840,000 breast cancer patients who were diagnosed between 2006 and 2023, the results suggest there is a potential link between GLP-1 RAs and improved outcomes among breast cancer patients who are also obese or have type 2 diabetes.   GLP-1 RA use was associated with an overall lower risk of death from any cause over a 10-year follow-up period among breast cancer patients. Additionally, breast cancer survivors who used GLP1-RAs for diabetes or obesity had a significantly lower risk of their cancer returning over 10 years following their initial treatment.   "Our findings align with emerging preclinical research and contribute to a growing body of literature related to GLP-1 RA use in oncology settings," said study lead author Kristina L. Tatum, PsyD, MS, of the VCU School of Public Health.   What's next? Further studies are needed to understand the biological mechanisms, if any, between GLP-1 RAs and breast cancer outcomes. The research team intends to further evaluate these correlations through randomized clinical trials.   "Our study underscores the potential of GLP-1 RAs as an adjunct strategy for improving cancer-related outcomes among patients with breast cancer, although clinical trials are needed to inform effective therapeutic approaches and clinical decision making," Fuemmeler said. https://www.oncology-central.com/could-glp-1-receptor-agonists-improve-outcomes-for-breast-cancer-patients-with-obesity-or-with-type-2-diabetes/ XX Researchers at UC Riverside gave cannabis to obese mice and found that not only did the rodents lose weight, but when given a concentrated cannabis oil, the mice also saw striking benefits in their metabolic function. DiPatrizio said his team studied the issue to better understand why cannabis users show significant reductions in weight and risk for diabetes compared with nonusers. "We would think that chronic cannabis users would be eating more and weigh more, but it's just the opposite," DiPatrizio said. Scientists are increasingly examining the possibility that cannabis compounds could fight obesity or metabolic disorders like diabetes. Cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which partially controls nearly every aspect of our physiology, including metabolism and appetite. That creates the possibility that targeting this widespread system could unlock new therapies for these conditions. https://www.sfgate.com/cannabis/article/cannabis-weight-loss-california-study-22255328.php XX A new campaign launched by diaTribe and Genentech aims to empower and educate people about diabetes-related eye disease. Here's what you can do today to protect your eye health. To help address these barriers, diaTribe and Genentech partnered to launch All Eyes on DME, a new campaign that aims to spread awareness and educate people at-risk for or living with diabetes-related eye conditions like DME. Also partnering in the campaign is actor and comedian Damon Wayans, who wanted to share his journey (and, of course, a joke or two) with type 2 diabetes to open up the conversation about what is often a stigmatized or less talked about topic: eye health and diabetes.   One of these important conversations happened recently at the All Eyes on DME launch in New York City, where Wayans joined a panel of experts, advocates, and people living with DME to talk about diabetes-related eye disease and how to help prevent it. https://www.alleyesondme.com/dme-in-the-spotlight.html https://diatribe.org/diabetes-complications/all-eyes-dme-new-campaign-spotlights-eye-health-and-diabetes

People keep asking the same question: what's actually the difference between all these weight loss medications?  Ozempic. Wegovy. Mounjaro. Zepbound. Foundayo. Wegovy pill. Some of these medications are injections, some are pills, some are FDA-approved for diabetes, others for weight loss, and some are actually the same medication with completely different brand names. So I'm breaking it all down for you today — in plain language — because the confusion alone is keeping people from getting the treatment they need. The real problem isn't just the brand names. It's that without knowing exactly how these medications differ, patients end up on the wrong one, pay out of pocket unnecessarily, or give up when insurance denies them. You deserve better than that. Once you understand what each one actually does, the whole picture becomes much clearer. Listen now!   Episode Highlights: Why Ozempic and Wegovy are the same medication and why the difference still matters How tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) works on two hormone pathways and why it tends to produce greater weight loss The new oral options — Foundayo and Wegovy pill — and who they're actually right for Real average weight loss numbers from clinical trials, by medication How insurance covers (or denies) each one and what I tell my patients when it does Who may be a candidate for these medications   Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd   About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

What comes first: the obesity or the skin inflammation?  We've got just the expert to help us find out. This week, we're joined by Dr. Ganary Dabiri as she walks us through the relationship of obesity and the skin. Listen in as she discusses skin diseases, how to use "people first" language, and the clinical possibilities of GLP-1 medications. Each Thursday, join Dr. Raja and Dr. Hadar, board-certified dermatologists, as they share the latest evidence-based research in integrative dermatology. For access to CE/CME courses, become a member at LearnSkin.com. Dr. Ganary Dabiri is double board-certified in Dermatology and in Obesity Medicine. She earned her graduate and medical degree from Albany Medical College. She completed her Dermatology Residency at Roger Williams Medical Center. In 2024 she completed her requirements and obtained board certification in Obesity Medicine. Dr. Dabiri is an adjunct assistant professor at Albany Medical College. She works in private practice in Milford, Massachusetts. In 2024, Dr. Dabiri started the first Skin Inflammation and Obesity Medicine Specialty Clinic in Massachusetts. This comprehensive clinic focuses on and treats patients not only for their chronic inflammatory dermatologic condition such as Psoriasis, Hidradenitis Suppurativa, PCOS, and Atopic Dermatitis but treats their concurrent obesity. Since the inception of this clinic, she has helped numerous patients achieve clearer skin, improve their joint health, but equally if not more importantly - improve their overall health.

In this episode, Dr Aarti Soorya explores the nervous system not as something to “fix,” but as something to understand, listen to, and work with.Aarti trained as a physician, became chief resident, and then moved into functional medicine after feeling that conventional medicine was missing something deeper. But even functional medicine, with its labs, supplements, and protocols, didn't fully answer the questions she was asking. Her own experience with insomnia, fatigue, and feeling out of alignment led her toward nervous system work, yoga nidra, and a more compassionate understanding of the body.Together, we explore what happens when the body gets stuck in survival mode, and why symptoms like anxiety, fatigue, digestive issues, low mood, brain fog, insomnia, people-pleasing, and shutdown can all be signs of a nervous system that no longer feels safe.Aarti explains the vagus nerve, fight, flight, freeze and fawn responses, and why stress itself isn't always the problem. The real issue is whether we can recover. Rather than simply “managing stress,” she invites us to think about adaptability: the ability to be with our own physiology without fear, and to gently build capacity over time.This conversation is also full of practical, grounded tools. We talk about yoga nidra, breath, posture, cold exposure, movement, blood sugar stability, rest, play, creativity, connection, and why joy is not a luxury, but part of a resilient system.At its heart, this is a conversation about learning to stop fighting the body and start listening to it. Because sometimes the symptom is not the enemy. Sometimes it is the message. Episode HighlightsWhat the nervous system is and how it shapes how we think, feel, and respond to lifeThe difference between coping, stress management, and true adaptabilityHow chronic stress can contribute to insomnia, fatigue, gut issues, anxiety, and low moodA simple explanation of the vagus nerve and why it matters for overall healthThe four common stress responses: fight, flight, freeze, and fawnWhy symptoms may be messages from the body rather than signs that something is wrongHow yoga nidra helped Aarti recover from insomnia and burnoutPractical tools for building a more resilient nervous systemThe role of joy, play, dance, and connection in healingWhy rest is essential for creativity, repair, and long-term wellbeingChapters00:00 Adaptability and learning to feel safe in your body02:19 Aarti's journey from medicine to nervous system work06:31 Insomnia, burnout, and the missing piece in healing09:46 Understanding the nervous system in plain English14:51 Cortisol, chronic stress, and why symptoms appear17:15 The difference between coping and true adaptability20:49 Signs your nervous system may be dysregulated28:23 Fight, flight, freeze, fawn, and “functional freeze”31:10 How yoga nidra helped Aarti recover from insomnia38:08 Healing without overhauling your whole life41:47 Why joy, play, creativity, and connection matter42:16 Sleep, safety, and listening to your body46:33 Cold exposure, breath, and building resilience53:37 Epigenetics, lifestyle, and personal agency59:49 Dance, movement, and coming back to joyGuest BioDr Aarti Soorya is an integrative medicine practitioner and physician whose work brings together conventional medicine, functional medicine, lifestyle interventions, nutrition, neuroplasticity, and Yoga Nidra. She is board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, a Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, and has completed functional medicine training.Through Jiya Health, Dr Soorya helps people understand the nervous system, build physiological resilience, and use practices like Yoga Nidra, nervous system mapping, and lifestyle changes to support long-term health and adaptability.The Bountifull PodcastBountifull is a personal growth and wellbeing podcast exploring what it means to live a joyful and meaningful life.bountifullworld.com/podcast/

Medicare has spent years telling obesity patients: your medication isn't covered. Starting July 1, 2026, that may finally start to change. In this episode, I will break down the new Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Demonstration Program — what it is, who qualifies, and which medications may be covered. This is not just a policy update. For thousands of patients who have paid hundreds of dollars out of pocket or given up on treatment altogether, this pilot program represents a real opening. The biggest barrier to obesity treatment has never been willpower. It's been access.  This episode is your first look at what's coming and whether it applies to you. Episode Highlights: What the Medicare GLP-1 Bridge Program is  Which medications may be covered  The three eligibility groups by BMI and medical condition  Why this program matters beyond medication What the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA) is and why it still needs to pass Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

Your weight loss medication was denied. That moment of hope is gone. But this is not a 'you' problem. It's a system problem. In this episode, I break down why insurance denials for weight loss medications happen so frequently, and more importantly, what you can actually do about it. From formulary exclusions to step therapy requirements to the documentation timing that can reset your entire approval clock the barriers are real, but they are navigable. A denial does not mean you failed. It means you hit a wall in a system built with gaps. Understanding how that system works is the first step to getting through it. Listen to this episode to stop feeling defeated and start building your case.   Episode Highlights: Why insurers deny weight loss medications even when you clearly qualify What "step therapy" is and why it forces patients to go backwards The documentation timing mistake that can reset your approval from scratch How to appeal a denial and why an appeal is advocating, not begging Self-pay options now available when insurance won't budge   Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

I'm delighted today to be joined by Dr. Joseph Skelton, professor of Pediatrics, founder and director of Brenner Fit, a program at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. FIT stands for Families in Training, which is a family-based pediatric obesity program. He's the author of a new book on children and their weight, a topic we discussed in a separate podcast. But in this podcast, we're talking about something he teaches at Wake Forest, a course in culinary medicine. This is a fascinating, pioneering area of focus, so let's dig in. Interview Transcript There's a lot of language about medicine and nutrition now, so people talk about food as medicine. There's a move afoot to get more training and nutrition and medical education, and here you are doing culinary medicine. Tell me how all these things differ from one another. Our interest in this here at Wake Forest School Medicine started a little organically with our program. A lot of what we do is focus on family meals. There are decades of research showing the benefits of family meals, not only for the nutrition and obesity risk, but the quality of nutrition, time spent together, parent child communication. Kids are less likely to get pregnant or do drugs and alcohol. All these things from just spending that time together over the meal. And I inherited a small teaching kitchen that was at a local organization that someone before me had gotten funding for. And we, sort of, took it over and used this opportunity to teach families how to cook. And a lot of families know how to cook but trying foods in different ways and to get kids involved and things like that. Then a couple years after that, the local YMCA approached us. They had some space and wanted to do this as a partnership. So I became a fundraising machine for a year or two and took a lot of dinners to raise the funds. And we built this gorgeous teaching kitchen, and we were mainly doing it in the efforts of sort childhood obesity treatment or prevention, getting families, teaching them new recipes, which then kind of extended to that whole key thing of getting families just to be comfortable in the kitchen and spending that time together. And we just started seeing these amazing things. We always say we've converted more kids to Brussels sprouts than I think any other effort of just getting them cooking it a different way. You and I were both probably raised with steamed Brussels sprouts, which I think is an abomination. If you really want to highlight the sulfur smell of a food, then you're going to steam it. And so, we really started to do that. And then students started volunteering. Actually, it was a student, Josh Patman, he's an emergency medicine physician now at East Carolina University, and he was a cook in a professional kitchen college. And he said, hey, could I help volunteer with that? And then more student medical students wanted to do it. And then we all found that you, much like I did, I'm a self-taught cook myself, and the more time you spend in that, the more you learn, the more comfortable you are. And the more you start to know, you know, I can teach med students nutrition all day, but that doesn't teach them how to get nutrition on their patients' plates, into their mouth. And so it really grew from there. And then I, kind of, stumbled upon what other people were doing. It started in New York, but the biggest program started was really Tulane School of Medicine that had it as a very focused way about teaching nutrition through cooking. Not just on a blackboard through PowerPoint slides and stuff like that of like hey, let's teach it in a different way. And the old-fashioned analogy, and actually the medical educators hate this, it used to be see one, do one, teach one. That was sort of the old surgical thing. And so, it's really you got to see how to make a recipe and you got to do it yourself. And what we found that when students start then teaching each other, or teaching patients or teaching community members, it really drives home and gives them a much deeper understanding of what nutrition in the real world is. Let's talk about the need for this. If we go back in time and we think about your parents or my parents, you know, the likelihood is that meals were being prepared from the real foods rather than from a package, let's say, or in a micro. How are things different now for the modern parent that has kept people distanced from their food and where it comes from, and that's led families to be distant because they're not having meals together as much? What does that look like now? Yeah, pulling from our own history, you know, Home Ec is not really a thing anymore. We did this study in our own med students. You know, most of their cooking, nutrition, the nutrition education they're getting tends to be the popular media. They're learning it from social media. Very few students have a degree in nutrition or took a nutrition class. And as much as we have to cram into medical student's education, there's not much room for it. They mainly learn to cook from their families. And what we know is families are cooking less and less for multiple reasons. They're much busier. Especially parents, actually parents of kids of all ages with that. And again, the marketing of food, you know, it's much easier to get ready made meals. And I'm not badmouthing those, you know. We're in talks right now of actually writing a cookbook for families, and one of the things that we promise is we're going to have a chapter on assembled meals. You know, having a pre-made salad with a rotisserie chicken, that's still going to be a better thing to do if you bring that home, sit at a table or at a bar or around a coffee table and eat that meal together. It's still going to be better for your family in multiple ways on multiple levels than eating out. And what I see, it really with families right now when it comes to actually raising "healthy eaters" or raising good eaters is when we... and again, I love a good restaurant, I'm not trying to badmouth that... but when you're going out to eat a lot of kids have endless choices and there's two issues. One is a paradox of choice. Whatever they get, they're always going to think that other thing might have been better. And it doesn't allow them to spread their palate and try different foods and get exposed to different things. And we always laugh... whenever in this field we want to play a drinking game where every time you say complex or complexity, you take a drink because, but it is such a complex issue with parents. You know, with kids and getting meals on the table. And hopefully finding some time, whether it's a breakfast or it's a dinner, but finding that time to come together around a meal. You mentioned the paradox of choice. I was reminded at one point I downloaded this cute app called You Choose or something like that. And it would help you make a decision if you were undecided. It would flip a coin, it would roll a dice. It would do, yes, no, it would do rock, paper, scissors, it would do all these things. And I was at a restaurant once. I couldn't decide between two entrees, so I used it. I did rock, paper, scissors, or something, and I then it said, okay you should choose X. So I ordered X and the second I ordered it, I immediately thought I should have ordered Y. Alright, so tell us about culinary medicine. What does this course look like that you teach? Yeah, the best way to think about it is applied nutrition. Because again, you can understand a ton about nutrition, but if that doesn't change into you getting the foods that you want in front of you, to me it's almost theoretical or scientific. It's applied nutrition. It's this idea of teaching some very basic cooking skills, and then including within that very core elements of nutrition. And for us, we tend to do it by the balanced plate. We think that works really well for families. But having it be very real world. You know, so again, we have recipes... in two weeks, I'm doing one... we're doing a rotisserie chicken and you're breaking it apart and making a chicken salad out of it. We were always teaching using microwavable rice and a couple of the students cornered me and said, this is very offensive to my culture. You need to teach people how to make real rice. But what it looks like for us is about a quarter, almost a third of med students will rotate through these classes. So, it's voluntary. Next year we're actually hopefully going to surpass half of the first-year med school class. That's unbelievable. That's very impressive. Well, especially up until last year I was doing this in my free time and paying for it with fundraising money. But yeah, Wake Forest is really behind this now. But about a quarter to a third of med students. They do five classes. And it's set up and again, that sort of theme of that family meal. They come in and we get stuff cooking. We get stuff in the oven; we get stuff on the stove top. We usually take some time out for a very short lecture. Again, tends to be very practical stuff. We include a lot about social determinants of health and food insecurity. Given what I do, we talk about picky eating. Very little do we go into details about Mediterranean diet and Dash diet and some of the really core things with that. We really just try to keep it about getting that balanced plate of a protein, a starch and a fruit or vegetable on the plate in front of you. They come back and usually finish what they're cooking, and then they sit down to eat together. And unlike when I was in med school and you were in grad school, or when you were teaching, a lot of students don't go to class anymore. A lot of students, they record the lectures so they can listen to them at one and a quarter speed and study in the best way for them. I love getting to know my students on a different level of sitting down. And that's what my really own exposure to medical student education anymore is really through this, which to me is just the ultimate. Being able to sit down, teach them some interesting things, eat a meal with them. Given my chemistry background, I love getting into the science of a lot of the stuff. And I think for them being, you know, sort of STEM kids, it makes a lot more sense. One of my favorite things is the science of grilling, you know, the science of garlic, you know, things like that. And it helps them sort of understand and helps them remember that, and also peppering it with the stories. It just tends to stick that much more when they know the science, they know the story, they know the culture behind it. So, it's five classes. It's all set up that way, that there's a short lecture. They're preparing everything they can and they're eating it. Again, we include some very easy stuff. One of the classes we do microwaveable vegetables because that's what a lot of what their patients are doing. The bagged vegetable medleys. And one, the important thing that we teach them is most of these don't have any seasoning. So yeah, you can microwave them, but you have got to teach your patients throw a bit of olive oil on there, throw a pad of butter, do some salt and pepper, add some other spices to it. And they go nuts with one group will do some more Indian spices. One group will do more sort of traditional, one to do more Asian flavorings to it in our teaching kitchen. It's really teaching very practical things like that. The fun part of that, that's really spun onto the other things that I'll tell you about, is about half of those students that do that- we have about 18 per semester- and about half those students end up volunteering with us. They come to the classes that we have that are community focused. Now some of the students are going through lead teacher training. They get Serve Safe Certified. It's awesome for me and my staff because it saves us a lot of time and overtime that they come in, they let themselves in the kitchen, they set up, they run the class, they clean up, and they can't get enough of it. They absolutely love it. Now you do some celebration of different food cultures in your class. Tell, tell us about that. Including, as I understand, some of the food culture that you grew up with. Yeah. Yeah. That, that's about, that was a big understatement right there. We just love that and that's a great thing. Wake Forest, being a private medical school, kids are from all over the country, from all different backgrounds. And so, we absolutely sort of herald that. One of the things I love doing is class three is a plant-based proteins class. The first class is a general cooking class. The second class has a focus on animal proteins, and again, we're always also cooking vegetables and fruits and starches. The third class is plant-based proteins, and I do that as Southern cooking. And I just love that sort of theme with that. So, we do pinto beans, you know, And the slow cooker. We tell them how to use instant pots, pressure cookers. We do black eyed peas. A lot of these kids don't know that you're supposed to eat that on New Year's Day. I do a vegetarian collard green recipe, taught to me by a local chef. And I think this is probably my number one post that I do in social media is cornbread night. And teaching them how to make cast iron skillet cornbread, which is the only way to do cornbread in my book. And letting them know, sort of, the background of a lot of the stuff. My wife is from South Carolina, so I teach them great thing about cornbread if you're a poor student, is you have a slice with your beans and your collard greens, and then for dessert you put honey on. Which is what I picked up in South Carolina. So, you know, really celebrating that stuff. We have a whole Spanish speaking program, and we have an article written, we just haven't found the right journal for it. It says, leave my tortilla out of this. Instead of, you know, saying, oh, you have to eat less tortillas, celebrate it. Why is that such an important part of not even that culture, but this family's food history and stuff like that. Because food is personal, it's cultural, its family, and it's to be celebrated. We do a fourth-year elective, it's the last full elective of their fourth-year class and a very lucky 20 students get to do that class. And we always have one called Family Night where they bring a dish that's important to them and their family. And it could be like me, it was the roasted chicken that one of my classmates in med school cooked. And I just thought that was so exotic. You know, I never had a whole roasted chicken before. You know, we had a student that had spent the first part of her life in Australia, so she did pavlova and told the history about where the pavlova came from. Now that's considered sort of the national dessert of Australia. And I always remember this one student, he was going to emergency medicine, very quiet kid. And he's over there cooking these porridges. That's the only way I could describe it is just these porridges. We said, what are you doing? And he told the most amazing story. I almost tear up when I talk about it. His grandfather fled Saddam Hussein. He was Iraqi Christian and fled Saddam Hussein and his grandfather lived with them. And this was their afterschool snack. Was this Iraqi dish that his grandfather would make. And there was a sweet one and there was a savory one. And so just stuff like that is... it's fantastic. I just, I can't get enough of that. And they remember that. And so, as students leave us, and I just came from Match Day where they found out where they're spending the next three to seven years of their life. And I always say wherever you're going, learn something about that culture and that food. If you're moving to Cincinnati, you have got to learn about Cincinnati Chili and getta. take something from that. I did all my training in Wisconsin and the Wisconsin supper clubs and how you can tell what a fresh cheese curd is, and it's just... food is fantastic. And we can take that with us wherever we go. And it can give you a way to know your patients even better. And when I hear of a family that they're from West Africa, ah, you like Jollof Rice. And their face lights up and like, oh yeah, where'd you have Jollof rice? So, it's a great way to get to know more about people. So, there's way more to it than cooking technique. I mean, there's, you know, you roast a chicken that this temperature for that long, or here's how long you microwave. It's really a lot more than that, isn't it? It's just like medicine. It's science and an art. And you know that one of my most popular lectures I give does not have to do with obesity but has to do with barbecue and all the different styles of barbecue. And what is just amazing, despite what we know about the science of taking spareribs, which are an incredibly tough cut of meat, and you have to cook them low and slow to get that temperature up. I think it's 189 degrees or higher where you start to get the collagen that breaks down and they turn tender. So yeah, spareribs to be good tender and edible, you're talking four to six hours. But then you go to Tuscaloosa, Alabama and you go to Dreamland Barbecue. They do spareribs over live coals for an hour and a half. I sat there talking to the person doing it. I'm like, you must bake them ahead of time. Do you soak them? And he's just like, nope. And so again, I know the science of that. So how do these jokers do that for an hour and a half, and it turns out in what my opinion are the greatest bear ribs in the world. Oh really? Oh, I'll have to try. I'll have to try that place out. Yeah, there's several. Birmingham has two there. There's several in Southeast and they cook them for an hour and a half. Over live coals. Violating every scientific principle of low and slow. Don't get it. It's fascinating. That sounds really good. Yeah. Well, Joey, thanks very much. One final question. Do you see this... is this a movement in medicine now or more and more people doing this? Yeah, you know, it was really big for a while. Tulane had so much. You know, they were sharing their curriculum and they were doing some good research. And that's where a lot of what you see now as the food is medicine food is medicine or as medicine where hey, we need to find ways to get medically tailored meals in the patient's hands. There's really good evidence of that with diabetes and stuff like that. I think what you're seeing now is, I think especially with some of our efforts in the government right now, is sort of demanding more nutrition education in medical school. And I'm going to double down on culinary medicine because you know what? My students, myself, I don't need to know more about the biochemistry of carbohydrates. I need to know the biochemistry of cooking and how to do that quickly and safely to teach my patients. And also, with that, we have to forget, there's an entire field that's already doing this, you know? Dietetics and nutrition and there's professionals that probably are way better than us. But I think having this increased understanding, especially dwelling in that food space, is going to help us relate to them that much more. So even though I do a lot of nutritional counseling and talking, I still use my dieticians way more. I think they're going to be way better at that. So I think there is a lot of steam building towards that, but we don't need to turn doctors into junior dieticians. But I think we can give them deeper understanding of how food and nutrition affects their health and the broader aspects of that. It's not about the biochemistry of insulin secretion, it's about where are they accessing food and how can they make use of the food pantry near them. And let them know, hey, it's okay when you open a can of beans it's gonna smell like cat food initially, but you know what? You wash that off and actually it's not going taste like cat food. And you know, just kind of be able to work with them. Hey, canned beans are perfectly fine. Guess what? Canned beans now are coming in no salt added and low salt preparations. And here's an easy way that you could take these canned great northern beans, chop up some herbs with olive oil and a chunk of garlic and you can make some fantastic bean recipe that is incredibly filling and healthy and cheap as dirt. Oh, that's really nice. Well, this is an exciting advance in the field and you're really at the forefront of it, and your students are lucky that they have this available to them. So, thanks very much for being with us and sharing your experience. Well and what the big secret about this is, Kelly, is this is fantastic. I love doing it. Our med school really values it, but it's a lot of fun. That's the thing. You can tell just by the way you're talking about it. It is so much fun. And again, I just saw all my students that were graduating. And that some of these I hadn't seen in three years and they're like doing Doctors in the Kitchen and then seeing patients, they're cooking and being able to relate to them in those ways. I just have a text from one of my students going to family medicine, and she's like, this changed the trajectory in my career. And I'm not taking credit for that, but just the idea of giving that experience I think especially in my world to medical students, I absolutely love it. In the end it's a hell of a lot of fun. BIO Joseph A. "Joey" Skelton, MD, MS, FAAP, FTOS, DABOM is a Professor of Pediatrics, and of Epidemiology and Prevention, at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. He is the Founder and Director of Brenner FIT® (Families In Training), an interdisciplinary pediatric obesity treatment, prevention, research, and educational program. He serves as the Director of the Center for Prevention Science in Child and Family Health, Vice Chair of Research for the Department of Pediatrics, Associate Leader of Community and Stakeholder Engagement at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. He is the Editor-in-Chief of the journal Childhood Obesity. He is board certified in Pediatrics and Obesity Medicine. His research and clinical work has focused on the treatment of children with obesity. He has secured nearly $10 million in funding over the past 15 years, has given over 50 national and international presentations, and has over 130 peer-reviewed publications. He enjoys teaching cooking classes that are both fun and informative to anyone who will listen.

The Ozempic Revolution is upon us. So how do we use these miracle drugs optimally and responsibly? In this episode of Mom Curious, Daniella sits down with Dr. Alexandra Sowa, founder of SoWell and author of The Ozempic Revolution, to unpack the science, stigma, and surge of interest around GLP-1 medications. As a physician specializing in obesity medicine, Dr. Sowa brings a clinical, evidence-based perspective to a conversation often dominated by headlines and misinformation.Together, they explore how #GLP-1s work in the body, who these treatments are for, the importance of medical supervision, and the broader shift toward treating metabolic health with nuance rather than shame.This conversation offers clarity on a rapidly evolving space - and invites a more informed, compassionate understanding of the body and how it works. GUEST BIODr. Alexandra Sowa (@alexandrasowamd) is a dual board-certified physician in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine, author of the best-selling book The Ozempic Revolution (HarperCollins, 2025), and founder of SoWell, the first doctor-developed wellness brand created specifically for GLP-1 users.She trained at Johns Hopkins University and the NYU School of Medicine, where she now serves as a Clinical Instructor. Through her multi-state tele-health clinic, she has helped thousands of patients succeed with GLP-1 therapy. A nationally recognized expert in metabolic health, she is a frequent contributor to outlets like CNN and Good Morning America. AFFILIATE LINKS & MENTIONS ❤️ 20% off SoWell's GLP-1 Support System with code MOMCURIOUS20 through May 31st To Book a Recording at Hoff Studios$30 off WTHN Acupuncture booking with code MOMCURIOUS30More info on EVOLV GLP-1 Supplements Follow @momcurious and the host @daniellarabbani on Instagram Subscribe, rate, and review - it helps get the word out about the show and keeps these conversations going. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How does metabolic health govern your long-term vitality, energy, and quality of life? Dr. Priya Jaisinghani outlines why monitoring some basic lifestyle actions could prevent so many common chronic diseases.In this episode of TRUST ME I KNOW WHAT I'M DOING, we sit down with NYU endocrinologist and obesity medicine specialist Dr. Priya Jaisinghani to decode the complexities of metabolic health.Forget the quick fixes and diet culture — Dr. Jaisinghani walks us through a science-backed approach to understanding metabolic function as a comprehensive system. We move beyond the scale to explore how muscle mass, cardiovascular health, and hormonal balance dictate your long-term vitality.In this episode, we cover:• Why "metabolic health" is the true metric for longevity and quality of life.• Actionable steps to improve insulin sensitivity and sustain energy levels.• How to navigate health misinformation and advocate for yourself in the medical system.The critical link between your daily habits—like sleep and hydration—and your organ function.Subscribe for weekly conversations that serve as a mirror and window into the global Indian and South Asian experience.--------------------------Chapters:00:00 Introductions04:07 Defining Metabolic Health07:29 Personalizing the Approach13:03 Bridging Knowledge Gaps in Health16:43 Healthy Choices for Young Adults19:29 Redefining Fun and Social Activities20:40 Empowering Patients as Advocates22:39 Sponsor Break - Travelopod24:06 Tailoring Health Approaches for South Asians28:15 Dismantling Weight Bias and Stigma31:08 Building a Weight Neutral Approach35:01 Understanding GLP-1 Medications37:30 The Role of Nutrition in Metabolic Health39:09 The Importance of Sleep in Metabolic Health40:51 Building Trust in Patient RelationshipsConnect with Dr. Jaisinghanihttps://nyulangone.org/doctors/1942738547/priya-jaisinghaniBig shout outs to Anagha on her 50th, and to my friend, pediatrician colleague, and adolescent medicine guru Dr. Lauren Hartman,  whose latest book Freeing Children and Young Adults from Shame, Scales, and Stigma is available now. Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review on Spotify, Apple, or Amazon or wherever you podcast!TRUST ME I KNOW WHAT I'M DOING is proudly brought to you by TRAVELOPOD, with personalized travel support to help you explore the wonders of the world.  Start your next journey at vacation.travelopod.com

Claim your complimentary gift of my exclusive mini weight care guide today!Link: Weight Care Guide — Dr. Francavilla Show (thedrfrancavillashow.com)What if something being talked about as “cutting-edge” in health spaces… isn't actually well understood yet?I'm excited to talk about a topic that keeps coming up everywhere right now — peptides.They're being discussed in clinics, online forums, and social media feeds, often with a mix of confidence and confusion. The problem is, the conversation has gotten so loud that it's hard to separate what's actually known from what's just being repeated. So instead of trying to cover this alone, I wanted to bring in someone who can help ground it in real clinical experience and science.Joining the conversation is Dr. Michael Albert. He's a board-certified internal medicine physician and a diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. He trained at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, where he served as a Kenmar Fellow and faculty member, and he went on to found the medical weight management program at the Weight Loss Center.He currently serves as a clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and is the co-founder and chief medical officer of Accomplish Health, a nationwide telehealth practice focused on comprehensive obesity medicine and medical bariatrics. His work is centered on translating medical evidence into practical, patient-centered care and improving how conversations around obesity are handled in clinical settings.Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Albert is also widely known for his educational content online, where he shares clear, science-based explanations to an audience of more than 300,000 people across platforms.So with that context in place, we're breaking down peptides — what they actually are, what the science says, and where the gaps still are.Topics covered in this episode:• What peptides actually are (explained simply)• Why people are starting to trust new, unproven treatments over well-studied ones• Why there's so little reliable human data on popular peptides right now• What “FDA categories” for peptides really mean (and what they don't mean)• Why some peptides can affect more than one system in the body (and why that matters)• Whether it ever makes sense to use peptides in real-world medical situations• The real research history behind BPC-157 and why it keeps coming upIf you want the full breakdown and the reasoning behind each of these points, check out the full episode where we go deeper into how peptides actually work in the body, what the current evidence really shows, and where the biggest gaps in understanding still are.Connect with Dr. Albert:Instagram: michaelalbertmdWebsite: Michael Albert, MDTiktok: www.accomplish.healthYoutube: Michael Albert MDLinkedIn: Michael Albert MDBsky: Michael “Mike” Albert MDConnect with me:Instagram: doctorfrancavillaFacebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. FrancavillaWebsite: Dr. Francavilla ShowYoutube: The Doctor Francavilla Sh

Weight loss plateaus on GLP-1 therapies such as Wegovy and Zepbound are increasingly understood as a function of biological adaptation rather than patient noncompliance. In this episode I will be discussing CagriSema, an investigational combination therapy expected to launch between late 2026 and early 2027. The treatment combines semaglutide and cagrilintide, targeting complementary mechanisms that regulate appetite and satiety. Clinical trial data indicate weight reduction of up to 22.7%, suggesting improved efficacy relative to existing monotherapies. The development reflects a broader shift toward combination-based treatment models, consistent with approaches used in managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension.  Listen to the episode for a closer look at what this could mean for treatment pathways and patient outcomes. Episode Highlights: Why plateaus happen and what your body is actually doing What CagriSema is and how its two-ingredient formula works What the REDEFINE trials show including how it stacks up against Tirzepatide Who this medication is most likely to help Why the best plan is still the one that's working for you right now Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

So going back more than 30 years, I was involved in work on childhood obesity. It was a prevalent problem at the time, but little attention was being devoted to children and weight issues. And it was fair to say that the field, as it were, was an academic backwater. Little was known about short and long-term effects of childhood obesity. The social and emotional lives experienced by the children hadn't really been documented or studied much. There was very little known about treatment or strategies for parents, but thankfully, things are different now. Thanks in part to the work of a number of really innovative people in the field, and one of the most innovative is our guest today, Dr. Joseph Skelton. He's a professor of pediatrics and founder and director of Brenner Fit. FIT stands for Families in Training, which is the family-based pediatric obesity program at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. He's also editor of the Journal of Childhood Obesity is involved in clinical care, research, education, and community outreach. Dr. Skelton has just published what I think is a really important book through the American Academy of Pediatrics, entitled Your Child Is Not Their Weight: Parenting in a Size Obsessed World. I was asked to review the book and was delighted to see it before it was published and just was so happy to see that such a book existed at all, but such a good quality book at entering the picture. Really a very important advance in our field. Interview Transcript There have been some books about pediatric weight issues in the past. Who is this book for and how is it different than what's been out there? I feel overall the big audience for this book is any parent, especially of my generation, that were raised during some really toxic diet culture in the '70s, '80s, and '90s. And so, I think the main folks that that's for is that parent: I want my kids to eat healthy, to be active, to lead healthy lives. But I don't want them to become concerned about their weight to feed into our culture's focus on the ideal body image. I don't want to feed into that. But you know I do want to pay attention to the health habits. How can I do this in a healthy way? How can I focus on health habits with my kid that's not a focus on weight and do it in a way that's backed up by science. You know, that's what parents always want to know. Am I doing this right? Am I causing harm? And it is actually who the book is dedicated to, you know, all those parents that were raised in a toxic diet culture and want to do things differently with their children. So, in modern day America, what is life like for a child whose weight exceeds the standards that we know might be healthy, and for the parents who are raising those children? From personal experience and 20 years of running a program, as well as what the research shows, it can be kind of rough. Despite a lot of the advances that we've made around weight bias we're still in a place that kids are trying to live up to this idealized body image. And then they have all these toxic messages when it comes to nutrition and body image. I think it's rough. We know that kids in bigger bodies tend to have a lower quality life. They tend to have more symptoms of depression, anxiety; and it's because of this world that we live in. You mentioned messages that they might be getting from places like the media, but what are interactions like with peers and teachers and doctors and others in their lives that are affecting how they feel? Yes. So, the adults in their life were raised in that toxic culture. They're my generation and the generation behind me that was raised in that. You know, there's the myth that a smaller body is healthier than a bigger body. And I think we can't break away from that. And I think that still sort of comes through. We still see this as a lifestyle issue, and everyone has an opinion. Everyone has a thought of, you know, well, I did this... and I lowered my cholesterol... I did this and I lost weight, you need to do it too. And I think in the medical profession, because of a lack of understanding, a lack of training - I think that still occurs. I don't do a ton of medical education. I'm getting more and more into it, especially when it comes to areas around nutrition. But that's what I'm trying to avoid in the next generation of healthcare providers and even actually a lot of our community collaborators, teachers, and stuff like that. To get away from that. This is not a simple issue, so don't share advice because sometimes that advice can be damaging or could be wrong. You know, good lord how much I hear about carbs on a weekly basis. And not the carbs I like to talk about, which is around dessert and Carolina Gold rice and all these other food stuff. But it tends to be around sort of demonizing certain foods and just really bad messages that still are floating around out there. Let's dive in a little deeper about what you refer to as toxic diet culture that was especially pronounced in previous generations. What does that mean? Does it affect standards for what the ideal body looks like? What about messages about how much control you have over that yourself, and how responsible you are for your weight? How your self-image should be influenced by how you look? But tell us more about what you mean by that. We wanted this to be a book that didn't necessarily dwell on weight so much, but actually one of the first chapters is to say let's cover how complex weight really is. We know that 50% or more of someone's weight is heavily, heavily influenced by their genetics. Where they live, you know. The amount that our lifestyle affects that is much, much smaller. It's the minority of what goes into our body size. And even that, our habits are so influenced by the world around us. But it's, you know, trying to get people to understand that, hey, body sizes are just different. I love this picture from the Olympics and it was a medalist in gymnastics- it was Simone Biles; you know, the huge media personality of Ilona Maher who is a bronze medalist in rugby; and then one of the women's basketball players. You're talking 4'9", 5'10" and pure muscle and six foot seven, all people at the top of their game. And not only different heights, different body types. And, you know, body type is a hard thing to talk about because there's not standard body types. We're all just built differently. And starting that message at a young age that people are just oftentimes built differently. There's very little control that we have over our weight. And even though there are things that we can do about weight, what you can do is you can focus on your habits for health. And that has just gotten lost. We talk about in the book the, we call it veiled weight talk, and it's basically where you're just substituting the word health for the word weight. And kids pick up on that. They know when their parents and others are talking about weight. And so, a really big thing we want to accomplish is like, Hey, you know, eating for health is important. Being active for health is important. In my world, and I did one part of my early research in this, and we always try to have that message as there's so much more to health than weight. In our medical world right now, our primary outcome on these lifestyle changes that people are making is weight. You mentioned genetics as a contributing factor to who is affected by the problem. Tell me how you look at the food environment out there that people are exposed to now, and things like food marketing and the processing of foods. The availability of all these foods that are contributing to obesity and things. And the reason I ask is, you know, there was a time in our country when the prevalence of childhood obesity was probably close to zero. And there are plenty of countries around the world where that's still the case. But now in many countries there's large amounts of childhood obesity. And it's not as if the genetics have changed. When people move from other countries to the United States, their weight tends to go up. Their genes obviously don't change. There's something pretty toxic about the food environment that's driving this. So, thinking about things that way, does that help parents by shifting some of the blame from them and their children to an environment that they might be able to manage in some way? Absolutely. Because parents…they blame themselves oftentimes. You know, how did I let this happen? What did I do to sort of cause it happen and it's not. So, we do try to shift that of looking at ourselves as the reason blame. But you can kind of look at the - and I'm just going to focus on nutrition as the focus - the broader food environment and how that impacts. We tend to get a lot of buy-in or understanding when you talk about how they are trying to market to kids. And so, for any parent, all you have to do is bring up the checkout line at a grocery store, you know? And all the things that are at the kids' level that is just made to make your life as a parent hard when you're trying to feed your kids well-balanced regular meals but you're just kind of constantly walking through this landmine. It's the same thing with electronics and social media. There are so many things that they have a lot more money than you do to market to you than you do to protect yourself against it. And it absolutely influences it. And the way I talk about this is really when it comes down to snack foods, and using the parenting language that snacks get you between long periods of time between meals, but that got co-opted by companies marketing snack foods. And when you see food, smell food or hear about food, you kind of want that food. And that's what parents have every day to now the point is. Snacks always have to be crunchy, salty, and sweet, and we're supposed to give kids snacks when they ask for it, because that's what these companies tell us about hunger. You know, hunger hits us every time and you have got to have this bar to sort of get through that. Parenting is hard enough and then trying to parent through this when they're directly marketing kids... you know, in most European countries, they're not allowed to market to kids. In some countries it's age eight. Some countries it's age 12 because they don't quite recognize this is marketing, they're want you to buy this. It makes it a lot harder for parents. You know, when I was on the faculty at Yale, I got to know a political scientist. A very impressive person named Jacob Hacker. And he'd written a book called The Great Risk Shift. What he talked about was how government and American businesses have systematically shifted the responsibility for overcoming harm from products from themselves onto the consumer. And that's really true in a way here, isn't it? Because the problem is created by corporations who are marketing unhealthy foods in such high levels. It's not the only cause, but it's certainly an important one. But the responsibility for solving the problem then falls to the parents and the children who have it. And one party has way more resources than the other. As you said, it's really not a fair fight and parents have a very tough battle dealing with these things. Yes. There was a marketing study called The Nag Factor, and I'm an old Simpsons fan, you know. You imagine the people behind the one-way mirror watching things and trying to manipulate. And that's what the nag factor was. How can we get kids to nag their parents more effectively? And what they found is parents that were immune to nagging tended to be the more educated, higher-income parents. And so, they literally had this plan of we need to change how we're getting these kids to nag. We need to give them reasons to nag. And that's when you started seeing vitamin C, high in protein. So, you think the checkout at the grocery store is bad, but then the signage in the commercials each and every day are giving kids reasons they can go to their parents to tell them get me this. Because nagging is not going to be enough for the high-income parents. They have to have some purpose behind it. You know, when I was growing up, the only way I saw advertisements for food was on Saturday morning cartoon television. And there were three channels showing it. Well, it shows how old I am, but now it's just an avalanche of messages on social media, built into gaming, and it's just everywhere. And it's probably pretty hard for parents to control that. Wouldn't you say? Well, now that you've said that, that's what my phone's going to start doing. The next time I open up my Facebook, there's going to be an ad for some sort of food camp because it's listening to us. Absolutely. Oh yeah. There's just no comparison. And I think that's also something very hard for parents, regardless of the topic, is what worked for me that my parents used is different than for my kids. And even between your kids. You know, my 24-year-old and my 20-year-old are completely different kids. You wouldn't even know they're related and different personalities. And so, what worked for one, you can't necessarily apply to the other. And whereas we love the idea of multi-generation households and, you know, being involved and being there to give advice. And you should take the advice of your parents, but it doesn't always apply. It's just a different world. I feel like I need to give credit to my East Tennessee farming roots. There are two stories I always remember my dad talking about when they would go to a car hop. Maybe some of your listeners know what a car hop is maybe they don't. It's like a Sonic, you know, it's the old school drive up. Or for you Atlanta folks, like the varsity drive up. My grandparents would make my dad put on his Sunday clothes. You know, that was how rare they went out is they would actually get dressed up driving into town to go try these hamburgers and these French fries. Versus now you can you DoorDash that 24/7. I mean just what a different world and concept. And I still have to share this other story for my grandfather, who my oldest son is named after, he was a tobacco and sustenance his farmer in East Tennessee. And every time I have a med student that's a vegetarian in my cooking class, I always tell the story of he came home one day, and he was talking to my aunt. He says, you know what? The county agent said one day people are going to be eating soybeans. That's so funny. Soybeans were fed to cattle back then. It's really just how drastically we change and now it's changing even faster. I mean, my grandchildren will be light years different than what my children are. Let's dive back into your book. Tell me about the collaboration with the American Academy of Pediatrics and how did the book come about? They have had two books in the past that were sort of geared towards parents, you know, how to address weight in your kids if your child has a problem with their weight, what can you do about it? Well-written books. They had done well. But they were looking to try to do something different. It was kind of time to sort of update that. And the last book was great by Natalie Muth. It was a fantastic book. So, a lot of my friends were on the 2023 clinical practice guidelines. And when that came out, there was a huge blowback from the eating disorder community. And, again, it's sort of the polarization of our country right now. And, they had asked me to speak at a conference saying, hey, can you try to do something in the middle? They knew that we included elements of the body positivity movement in what we do. We're big adherents and teachers of authoritative parenting. And they said could you try to give a talk that kind of goes in between what we're trying to do with the treatment of obesity that's affecting children's health as well as the body positivity movement. It's kind of, again, speaking of the Saturday morning cartoons, it was kind of those things that everyone stepped back, and Bugs Bunny was still in the front and got volunteered. It was sort of one of those situations. And so, I gave this presentation and they said, hey, well, what do you think about turning this into a book? Would you be interested in writing a book? And I said, absolutely not. I don't have time. And never in a million years would I do it. But this needed to be out there. So, first of all, the AAP asks, as a pediatrician, you do it. And second of all, I feel like this book needs to be out there. Both for who I talked about earlier, those parents that don't want to hurt the kids' feelings, make them hate their bodies, feel like something's wrong with them, which is what a lot of kids say. But it's also for those parents that are wanting to do something. These are the parents that, you know, they want to put their kid on a diet or make a comment to them of you sure you need to have seconds on that? You know, which we know can do damage. And of course, parents, you know, they don't want to hurt their kids and get in the way. And so, it was kind of geared toward those parents that were starting down an avenue that may not have been safe. You know, they don't have access to a good evidence-based program. And so, it's also for those parents that says, hey, your kids aren't little adults. Don't take these weight loss approaches to kids. It's just a different beast. We'll come back in a minute and talk about specific parenting strategy, but you alluded to this blowback from the eating disorders fields and the clinical guidelines. Tell us a little bit more about that, because it's one of the key features that would drive the need for a book like yours. I'm not an eating disorder specialist, but there was a big concern that one of the big recommendations that was new was that you can't have watchful waiting anymore. It used to be, you know, if younger children were starting to gain weight, before you intervene or start into treatment or start to change a lot that maybe just wait to see if, you know kind of the old-fashioned thing, are they going to outgrow it? Are they going to go through a growth spurt? So that was a part of the recommendations. The evidence says that watchful waiting in today's world, you're unlikely to see a kid outgrow it anymore, including bariatric surgery, use of medications and things like that. And so, they felt like this increased focus that this was going to cause pediatricians and parents to focus even more on weight and therefore lead to eating disorders. And then that was coinciding over the previous five years, a lot of studies were coming out and then it got put into a couple of systematic reviews of meta-analyses that showed that kids in bigger bodies, kids with overweight and obesity, had a two to three times higher prevalence of eating disorders. Because typically eating disorders are always thought to occur in underweight or thinner children. But it actually is much higher risk of these in children in bigger bodies. And so, we use that term threading the needle, how do you help families who want to do something about their child's weight for health reasons but not worsening disorders. And so that blowback was really saying, hey, by increasing focus on this, you're going to make things worse with that. And it was kind of surprising. A lot of my good friends were on that practice guidelines and they're kind of taken aback because these are experts in the field. Well-meaning people that for 10, 15, 20 years had dedicated their careers to helping these kids looking for help. And I think any care provider to be accused of causing harm is always, always jarring. Tell us how you navigate that and what sort of advice do you give parents in this book? Yeah, so one is that I call weight literacy. It's sort of understanding this is a complex issue. It's not something you did. This is something that happens. We can't always explain it. There are still things, this is where you read too much of this science, it gets you really paranoid about microplastics and things like that. There are some legitimate arguments to me be made there in endocrine disrupting chemicals and stuff like that. We can't always explain why kids are growing bigger than other kids or at a heavier weight. So, the weight literacy, sort of, understanding this is a complex issue, this is not a lifestyle issue. And the second thing is it's worthwhile to focus on healthy eating and physical activity for health. Sometimes that will see improvements in weight, sometimes it won't. But it's still important to do. That's the idea of getting away from that weight being the primary outcome. We feel like this is a great adjunct for someone who might be pursuing bariatric surgery or medications, because it does give us the opportunity to not keep pushing kids harder on nutrition and physical activity, which could lead to that disorder eating. And I think the final thing is sometimes parents and kids are aligned. You know, give me a 15-year-old girl that wants to lose weight. A 15-year-old girl that wants to lose weight, that is unfortunately a child that's very high risk of developing disordered eating. And maybe the parents really wanted to help. But what oftentimes we see a lot is tension brewing between the parent and child. The parent making efforts to help the child with their health and their weight, and the child interpreting those efforts as you think I'm fat, you think I'm ugly, you think something's wrong with me. And it's causing that tension: you know, you can't eat too much of that. Taking Food away. That movie Spanglish with Adam Sandler, several scenes in that sort of reflect that of just small comments that parents can make. You know, actually wanting to help and how that can hurt children. And what we would hope for a lot of parents is to say how can you do this in a way that can be helpful. And one of our chapters is called how to not talk to your children about their weight. You know, the idea that parents don't need to feel that pressure to bring that up. Now, if their child wants to talk about it, absolutely they need to be there, and we give a lot of tips for that. But, you know, your job as the parent, you don't really have control of your child's weight, but there's lots that you can control and lots that you can do to promote the healthy development of your child. You know there's a heavy dose of compassion in your book. That was one thing that appealed to me about it and impressed me. Because if one thinks about a book for parents on dealing with their overweight children, you sort of default to, oh, this book is probably a diet or an exercise program, or things like that about how the child can change their weight. And you're talking much more here about understanding the psychological world of the child. Being sensitive to possible risks of talking to them in ways that are unhelpful or lead to eating disorders and things like that. It's wonderful that you pay so much attention to those issues. And it's very affirming because you're saying that there are some things parents can do about this in ways that affirm their children, accept them as individuals. It's built into the title of your book that your child is not their weight. And that just means so much, I think. Oh, thank you. That is what we had hoped. I mean, you know, parents love their children and in endless, endless ways. And the parents are the key to their children and their children's health. And I feel like sometimes we push too hard. Now we're doing it for good reasons. We want this child to be healthy. We want to help make some improvements. And we put a lot on the parents' back. And I think sometimes then that pressure then is extended to the children. And a lot of this is trying to get parents some insights of, we know you love your children. Here's how to make sure that your child is being loved. You know, the old parenting typology, and I kind of go through some of that history in there, really kind of gets at that. But sometimes we do or say things that doesn't make their children feel loved by accident of course. And it sort of highlights that, not to make parents feel bad, just so they're aware. I've been guilty of it. None of us are perfect parents. And you know, making sure that our kids are feeling, loved by us. Family-based treatment is obviously the key. And I always think of one of your, one of your hypertension studies, I think from 1983. I still quote it to this day. You know, the idea that even though we talk about family-based treatment, we're usually dealing with a parent and a child. The dyad. Now they're representative of the family and I've always felt like something was, sort of, missing there. And two things really influenced me. One of that is one of my co-authors, Dara Gardner-Edwards, who is a licensed clinical social worker. And they are all about the family. They know how to do family assessments. And so, recognizing there's more than just those parents and the child in the clinic with you. In addition to that, working the whole field, I didn't know about human development and family studies. Didn't know that was a field and actually came from the University of Minnesota. I was one of the early. Strong program. So, UNC-Greensboro, our neighbor over there. I started working with a professor over there, Cheryl Buehler, and we would go meet over sushi and she essentially taught me a four-hour freshman-focused family studies course. And just this whole other world, social science world of family dynamics and recognizing when you're working with that child and parent. You may or may not be affecting the family dynamics in the household, of that family system. And so being able to extend differently and having some more appreciation of the complexity of families and the relationships with families. Hopefully we're helping people understand making changes in health habits, relationships matter. We have a project going right now, led by one of my medical students. She was always impressed, in shadowing with us, of how many siblings were picky eaters. And I brought this up to my team, like, oh yeah, this is a huge stress. You know, this parent is obviously wants to change the habits of the entire family but is obviously focused on this child we have in clinic. But the struggle of having this other kid that's a picky eater really throws off those dynamics. And being able to account for that and that stress that that puts on families, and what can we do around that? Oh, that's so interesting. You know, the more aggressive, dramatic treatments that are being used for adults like bariatric surgery and the GLP one drugs, how do they fit into this picture? Yeah, so we feel like it's a perfect adjunct if someone is pursuing with this with their child, because it still is talking about that parenting approach. And it's not really going to change anything with how you're parenting around these things. You know, bariatric surgery for many years has been done safely and effectively in children. Not that it's always perfect, but again, because of the cost, the idea that it's not reversible and typically you want that done in a center that's very experienced with working with kids. So, access issues tend to be really big with that. It can be very effective for some kids but is not available to everyone. We're in the same situation with the medicines with GLP1s. There's one that has been approved for use down to age 12, and overall, they tend to work very well with kids. But we're in the real world now. We're learning a lot about that. It can be miraculous for some children because it gives them success with their weight. It takes pressure off themselves. We're always trying to prevent that restriction, both in hearing that from another adult or the child doing it themselves, trying to tell themselves to eat less. It's always going to backfire. It's going to increase your hunger and things like that. And having that GLP1 is going to help with that. It's actually going to lower that pressure. And oftentimes they can get in that healthy routine much quicker. In others, it's causing some problems. We are seeing some kids that it is absolutely wiping out their appetite. And we're figuring out now the kids are sort of at risk for that. And you can't do that. The kids gotta eat. But for some kids, they just lose all appetite whatsoever. And they can't not eat. And so, we're still figuring out through the real world. But I think, what we're also finding is the job that we do in these multidisciplinary teams, it's just as important if not more important when you're using medications than when you're not. Let me ask you a big picture question and let me see how optimistic you might feel about how, where things are going. So, think of a physician who is treating people with lung cancer. So, the lung cancer is caused by this terrible environmental influence: cigarettes. And the physician then is in the position of having to treat the people who have that really unfortunate problem. And thank God there are physicians who do that, and there's research showing how to treat it effectively. But of course, it would be better if the environmental insult that's causing the problem in the first place didn't exist. That would make everybody happier, except for the companies that sell the product. So, do you think you and colleagues who are doing similar work are faced with a similar kind of a problem? There are all these environmental things that are helping push this problem in the first place. Thankfully, there's kindness, compassion and effective care available and your book helps push that forward even further. But are you hopeful at all that the environmental situation, you know, all the bad foods and stuff out there is changing in a positive way so that there might be less of the problem, or it might be easier on the children now who deal with the problem? Some people think it's getting worse. Others think we might see some progress. But what do you think about that? My brother is an HR guy and he kind of talks about these different typologies with that. And, I forget, I'm called something like the mad scientist, which is you're very pessimistic in complaining, but you have enthusiasm. I don't really know how to take that. But I think, you know, I'm enthusiastic obviously about this topic and what we can do to help parents. But I'm a little pessimistic when it comes to the broader world. I think there's enough, and not saying that every for-profit company's bad, but I think a lot of history is on my side with that. I don't get paid more the more kids I see and the better success I have. I don't get paid more. My job is to be here to help. But, you know, companies, every time I see a for-profit company that comes out and says safety is our number one priority. Or, you know, your satisfaction is number priority, I'm like, no, it's not. Your number priority are your shareholders. And I think that's a very, you know, jaded way to say, I don't quite trust companies right now because of that. Are there some positives that you see, and do you see some changes being made in some menus? Do you see some different products out there that are really trying to get it healthy? But it's hard. I think I have some trust issues and I think that's well founded. Maybe that's my Appalachian background. I tend to be very distrustful of the large mining companies coming in. That, speaking of your lung analogy, that I think I have some healthy distrust that is well founded. So, I think trying to help, and that's obviously a big movement that we have, of trying to help people be more discerning parents, more discerning consumers. But it's hard because they, like you said earlier, they have a whole lot more marketing dollars to convince you to buy their product than we have trying to convince them to make smarter choices about it. BIO Joseph A. "Joey" Skelton, MD, MS, FAAP, FTOS, DABOM is a Professor of Pediatrics, and of Epidemiology and Prevention, at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. He is the Founder and Director of Brenner FIT® (Families In Training), an interdisciplinary pediatric obesity treatment, prevention, research, and educational program. He serves as the Director of the Center for Prevention Science in Child and Family Health, Vice Chair of Research for the Department of Pediatrics, Associate Leader of Community and Stakeholder Engagement at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. He is the Editor-in-Chief of the journal Childhood Obesity. He is board certified in Pediatrics and Obesity Medicine. His research and clinical work has focused on the treatment of children with obesity. He has secured nearly $10 million in funding over the past 15 years, has given over 50 national and international presentations, and has over 130 peer-reviewed publications. He enjoys teaching cooking classes that are both fun and informative to anyone who will listen.

Recorded live at Grand Rounds at the Johns Hopkins Children's Center—our first episode from the stage! In this episode, Dr. Stephanie Green joins the team to discuss the rapidly evolving treatment landscape for pediatric obesity. We discuss GLP-1 receptor agonists, focusing on how these medications work, when they should be used, and how clinicians can integrate them into comprehensive obesity care.

If you're looking for weight loss options but don't want injections, things just changed in a big way. In this episode, I break down a new class of weight loss pills, including Foundayo (orforglipron), the newest GLP-1 option that was just approved. Unlike older treatments, this pill is designed to be simple. No fasting. No strict timing. You can take it with food or even coffee. We also look at how it compares to the oral Wegovy pill and what that means for people who want real results without shots. There are now two real pill options in the weight loss space, and choosing the right one is not about hype. It's about your lifestyle, your body, and what you can actually stick with long term.  We're entering a new era of weight loss treatment. And for the first time, you have choices that don't involve needles. Listen now to understand what's new and what actually matters before talking to your doctor.   Episode Highlights: How Foundayo works in the body How it compares to oral Wegovy What makes GLP-1 pills different from older weight loss meds Who these options may or may not be right for   Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd   About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

If you've spent any time on Instagram or TikTok lately, you've seen it. Peptide therapy. Everywhere. Promising weight loss, energy, anti-aging, and yes — menopause symptom relief. The before-and-after photos are compelling. The promises are bold. The packaging is pretty. And the price tags are steep.But here's what's missing from most of those posts: the science, the safety, and the truth about what's actually regulated, what's actually studied, and what's actually being sold to you in a vial from a compounding pharmacy you've never heard of. And in some cases, from your own licensed practitioner.Menopausal women are navigating in the dark. Being dismissed by their doctors. Feeling unheard. And turning to anything that promises relief.On this episode with Dr. Catherine Johnson, we cut through the noise and give you the straight answers you deserve.Dr. Johnson is Board-Certified in both Obesity Medicine and Emergency Medicine, and the Founder and Medical Director of Precision Medical Care, a private concierge practice she launched in 2018. She trained at Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, completed her residency at the University of Chicago, and spent nearly two decades there as an Associate Professor. She holds advanced certifications from the Menopause Society and the Institute for Functional Medicine, with fellowship training in Precision Medicine.This episode is for real women. In midlife and beyond. Those who are done being misled and ready for real answers.Medical Disclaimer:By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice or to make any lifestyle changes to treat any medical condition in yourself or others. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any of my podcast guests.Stay Connected with JFW:Watch on the YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@jillfooswellness/videosFollow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillfooswellness/Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jillfooswellnessGrab discounts on wellness products: https://www.jillfooswellness.com/health-productsEnjoy 20% savings and free shipping at Fullscript for your favorite supplements by leading brands:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jillfooswellnessSubscribe to the JFW newsletter at www.jillfooswellness.com and receive your FREE Guide on How To Create Your Menopause Health Equation Ebook. Schedule your complimentary 30-minute Zoom consultation here:https://calendly.com/jillfooswellness/30-minute-zoom-consultationsJoin April's Group Health Coaching cohort here:https://www.jillfooswellness.com/group-coachingIf you're a Chicago-area midlife woman, check out the Chicago Menopause Collective, a nonprofit dedicated to navigating menopause locally with experts:https://chicagomenopausecollective.org

If Wegovy has helped you — but not enough — the answer may not be more willpower. It may be a higher dose. The FDA just approved a new 7.2mg version of Wegovy, and the clinical data is turning heads. In this episode, I break down everything you need to know about this new higher dose — what the research shows, who it's designed for, and what it actually means for your weight loss journey. Weight loss medicine just crossed a new threshold. This isn't just a bigger dose, it's a meaningful new option for people who need more help reaching goals that can transform their health. Listen now! Episode Highlights: Why 1 in 3 people on the standard Wegovy dose don't lose even 5% of their body weight and what the new dose does differently The Step Up Trial: what a 1,400-person, 72-week clinical study published in 2025 found about the 7.2mg dose How nearly half of participants lost 20% or more of their body weight numbers we typically only see with bariatric surgery The side effects you need to know about, including the new one that showed up in 23% of patients Who this higher dose is best suited for and who should wait How the dosing process works and what to do if side effects become uncomfortable Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Keto Made Simple, Dr. Eric Westman sits down with leading protein researcher Dr. Don Layman to break down one of the most misunderstood topics in nutrition: protein. For decades, protein was overlooked in dietary guidelines, but new research is finally changing the conversation. Dr. Layman explains why protein should come first in your diet, how much you actually need, and why focusing only on carbs and fat misses the bigger picture. The discussion dives into muscle-centric health, metabolism, protein quality, and how your body uses protein every single day. If you've ever wondered whether you're eating enough protein, what types of protein are best, or how protein impacts weight loss, aging, and long-term health, this conversation will completely change how you think about food. This is essential viewing for anyone interested in keto, low-carb diets, metabolic health, or simply improving their overall nutrition.#keto #protein #lowcarb #nutrition #weightloss #health #diet #fitness

For years, Dr. Kelly Victory warned of the dangers of mRNA shots, only to be censored and criticized by her peers as an “anti-vaxxer”. But today, the receipts are in: a Senate investigation revealed federal health officials intentionally buried vaccine stroke risks in seniors, alongside a groundbreaking study showing clinical benefits of “the I word” medication and Mebendazole in cancer patients. Dr. Kelly Victory returns to Ask Dr. Drew to break down the latest bombshell medical reports, the media's new “Bird Flu” fear campaign, and the truth about embalmers' clots found after mRNA shots. Dr. Jessica Duncan (Chief Medical Officer at Ivim Health) joins to discuss the MAHA movement, why the FDA is severely restricting critical peptide research, and the urgent need for real nutrition education in modern medical schools. Dr. Kelly Victory is Chief of Emergency & Disaster Medicine at The Wellness Company and a trauma and emergency specialist with over 30 years of experience. She is a contributing author of “Toxic Shot: Facing the Dangers of the COVID Vaccines.” Find more at https://x.com/DrKellyVictory Dr. Jessica Duncan, MD, DABOM, DABA, is a board-certified obesity medicine physician and Chief Medical Officer at Ivim Health. She holds board certifications from the American Board of Obesity Medicine and the American Board of Anesthesiology, with an undergraduate degree from Georgetown University, Cum Laude. Learn more at https://instagram.com/doctorjessica.md and find Ivim Health at https://ivimhealth.com 「 SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS 」 • STRONG CELL – If you want to feel more like your younger self, go to https://strongcell.com/ and use code DREW for 20% off. • AUGUSTA PRECIOUS METALS – Thousands of Americans are moving portions of their retirement into physical gold & silver. Learn more in this 3-minute report from our friends at Augusta Precious Metals: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drdrew.com/gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or text DREW to 35052 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• FATTY15 – The future of essential fatty acids is here! Strengthen your cells against age-related breakdown with Fatty15. Get 15% off a 90-day Starter Kit Subscription at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drdrew.com/fatty15⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • PALEOVALLEY - "Paleovalley has a wide variety of extraordinary products that are both healthful and delicious,” says Dr. Drew. "I am a huge fan of this brand and know you'll love it too!” Get 15% off your first order at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drdrew.com/paleovalley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • THE WELLNESS COMPANY - Counteract harmful spike proteins with TWC's Signature Series Spike Support Formula containing nattokinase and selenium. Learn more about TWC's supplements at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twc.health/drew⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 「 ABOUT THE SHOW 」 This show is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Executive Producers • Kaleb Nation - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kalebnation.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Susan Pinsky - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/firstladyoflove⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Content Producer • Emily Barsh - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/emilytvproducer⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosted By • Dr. Drew Pinsky - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/drdrew⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Claim your complimentary gift of my exclusive mini weight care guide today!Link: Weight Care Guide — Dr. Francavilla Show (thedrfrancavillashow.com)What if the real breakthrough in weight loss isn't just the medication—but how it's actually used day to day?This week's conversation features Dr. Ken Fujioka, a longtime leader in obesity medicine who has helped shape the field from its early days to where it is now. As Director of Nutrition and Metabolic Research and Obesity Telemedicine at Scripps Clinic, with over 150 clinical trials and 125+ published studies, his perspective brings both depth and real-world clarity to the GLP-1 conversation.We talk about how medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide have changed obesity care—making meaningful weight loss more achievable while improving overall health. But just as important, we get into the realities behind the trend: the risks of improper use, the rise of unregulated access, and why proper medical guidance still matters.Here's what we cover:How GLP-1 medications are transforming weight loss and metabolic healthThe risks of getting these medications from untrained or non-medical sourcesWhy dosing should be slow, steady, and individualizedWhat “non-linear” weight loss actually looks like in real lifeHow to pair the medication with nutrition, protein, and smarter food choicesThe role of strength training in protecting muscle and boneWhy supplements like calcium and fiber may be neededHow food tracking can be used as a tool for awareness—not restrictionIf you want a clearer, more grounded understanding of how GLP-1s are really being used in clinical practice today, the full episode with Dr. Ken Fujioka goes much deeper into all of this.Connect with me:Instagram: doctorfrancavillaFacebook: Help Your Patients Lose Weight with Dr. FrancavillaWebsite: Dr. Francavilla ShowYoutube: The Doctor Francavilla ShowGLP Strong: glpstrong.com

You're doing everything right — watching what you eat, trying to stay active — and still the weight won't budge. If you have PCOS, this isn't a willpower problem. It's biology. And once you understand the cycle driving it, you can finally start to break it. PCOS creates a vicious cycle between high androgens, insulin resistance, and weight gain and each one feeds into the others. Your body isn't working against you randomly. There are real mechanisms at play, and understanding them is the first step to taking back control. In this episode, I break down exactly what's happening inside your body with PCOS and what you can actually do about it. I'll walk you through the androgen-insulin connection, where and why your body stores fat differently, and what the latest international guidelines say about treatment including newer options like GLP-1 medications. If you've been frustrated, discouraged, or told it's just about eating less and moving more this episode will change how you see your body and your options. Listen now! Episode Highlights: Why high androgens and insulin resistance keep feeding each other and why that makes weight loss so much harder Where PCOS fat actually gets stored (and why it's more than a cosmetic issue) Why losing just 5–10% of your body weight can dramatically improve your symptoms What nutrition and exercise approaches the research actually supports for PCOS What GLP-1 medications like semaglutide are showing in women with PCOS and what you need to know before considering them Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd   About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

If you've been struggling to lose weight and your thyroid came back abnormal, it's natural to connect the dots. But here's what I need you to know, the thyroid is not the whole story. In this episode, I break down exactly what your thyroid does and doesn't do when it comes to your weight. Yes, hypothyroidism affects your weight. But research shows it typically causes only 5 to 10 pounds of gain — and most of that is water retention, not body fat. Treating it will help you feel better, but it won't magically melt the weight away. And please, do not ask your doctor for extra thyroid medication to speed up weight loss. It won't work — and it can seriously hurt you. If you've ever blamed your thyroid for your weight struggles, this episode will give you the honest, research-backed truth — and a clear path forward. Listen now! Episode Highlights: What hypothyroidism actually does to your metabolism and what it doesn't Why the weight you gain from an underactive thyroid is mostly water retention, not body fat What to realistically expect when you start thyroid medication Why taking extra thyroid hormone to lose weight can cause serious harm The four steps to take if you're concerned about your thyroid and your weight Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd   About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

This week, I sat down with Dr Michelle Gordon - ex-surgeon, turned board-certified obesity medicine specialist, based in NY, USA. Dr Gordon is a woman who's walked the path of shame, self-doubt, and relentless pursuit of health only to discover her body's deeper story, so the power of that as it has informed her practice to support women is something you can truly feel. Michelle has become a fierce advocate for women navigating midlife weight struggles, metabolic adaptation, and the reality that what works for men and some women, doesn't always work for other women. We dive into the theory of set point weight, the power of GLP-1 medications like terzepatide and what the weigh ups are - I love that she said “it's not for losing 10 pounds and we do NOT want to bring back heroin chic!”She explains why obesity is a disease - not a personal failing and not a clap back of the body positivity movement. Michelle also unpacks the systemic gaps in women's health research, the impact of patriarchy on our bodies and what we're chasing, and why it's time to stop blaming ourselves for a system that's set up to fail us whether that's the beauty standards or the ultra processed foods that are so highly addictive. If you've ever felt like you're fighting your own biology, this conversation is your permission to pause, question, and reclaim your power. I really felt it myself as this has often been a story in my life, too. If you need this show or a friend does out there - I do so hope it's a shame-destroyer for many. You find the path and tools you want or need and lifestyle around those is always beneficial. Alexx StuartYour Host Fancy a few more podcasts we've done over the years, related to this one?Show #389 Metabolism: It's time to Retire the “Willpower” Message and Understand the Person, Says Lara BridenWant to learn more about this week's guest? Website: https://drmichellegordon.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctormichellegordon/ Thank you to this month's show partners for joining us to help you make your low tox swaps! @waterscofilters is giving you an added saving off their sale price, giving you 27% off their BIO 500 5.25L benchtop filter until April 15 - Perfect for couples/small families. Head to waterscoaustralia.com.au - Use code LOWTOXWATER - a market leader for 40 years, they filter everything bad out, including PFAS/microplastics, and ensure trace minerals are kept IN for deep hydration. @ausclimate is our major partner giving you 10% off their range for the whole of 2025, with brilliant Winix Air Purifiers, the best Dehumidifiers I've ever used and their new energy-efficient heating, air-circulating and cooling range. code LOWTOXLIFE (also works over and above their sales - pro tip!) https://bit.ly/ShopAusclimateBe sure to join me on Instagram @lowtoxlife and tag me with your shares and AHAs if something resonated! I love to see your thoughts, genuinely! Want to support the Low Tox Life podcast? Free option: Leave a 5 star review wherever you listen to Low Tox Life - thanks SO much! Paid + Member PERKS: Join the Low Tox Club - monthly practitioner live masterclasses, a suite of low tox store discounts from around the world and the most supportive and lovely chat group on all low tox topics on the internet: Check it out and join here for just the price of a coffee per month! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Christle Guevarra, DO, MS, specializes in Family Medicine, Sports Medicine, Obesity Medicine, Nutrition, and is a former powerlifting champion. Today on the show we discuss: the truth about GLP-1s and why weight loss isn't just willpower, how food noise works and what happens in your brain when it disappears, the right way to use GLP-1s without losing muscle or energy, why most people fail fat loss and how to fix it, how to build a sustainable routine with training, nutrition, and realistic expectations, and the deeper mindset work required to create lasting transformation beyond the scale and much more. Today's sponsor: Ax3 Get 20% off your first order of Ax3: ⁠⁠https://ax3.life⁠⁠ and use code "Doug" at checkout ⚠ WELLNESS DISCLAIMER ⚠ Please be advised; the topics related to health and mental health in my content are for informational, discussion, and entertainment purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health or mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your current condition. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard from your favorite creator, on social media, or shared within content you've consumed. If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. If you do not have a health professional who is able to assist you, use these resources to find help: Emergency Medical Services—911 If the situation is potentially life-threatening, get immediate emergency assistance by calling 911, available 24 hours a day. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org.  SAMHSA addiction and mental health treatment Referral Helpline, 1-877-SAMHSA7 (1-877-726-4727) and https://www.samhsa.gov Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've been eating barely anything and the scale still won't move, the problem might not be that you're eating too much. It might be that you're not eating enough.  And there's science behind why. "Why am I not losing weight?" It's the most frustrating question in my clinic. And the answer often surprises people.  Today, I'm answering it publicly — with research, not guesswork. In this episode, I break down exactly what happens inside your body when you undereat, why cutting calories too aggressively can backfire, and the six practical steps to get your metabolism working for you, not against you. Listen now! Episode Highlights: Why eating too little triggers metabolic adaptation What the research says about how many fewer calories your body burns as a result of eating too little The three hormonal shifts that happen when you undereat  Why you lose muscle — not just fat — on a crash diet, and why that makes future weight loss harder Six actionable tips: the right calorie range, protein at every meal, strength training, diet breaks, and sleep Warning signs that you may already be undereating Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

Shyam Sundaresh, MD, discusses his approach to obesity in older adults, including diagnostic tools and medication safety.

You've heard about the Wegovy shot. Now there's a pill — and the confusion is already spreading. Is it the same? Does it work as well? Can you take it with your other medications? In December, the FDA approved an oral form of semaglutide specifically for weight management and cardiovascular risk reduction. That's a game-changer — but only if you know how to use it correctly. Take it wrong and it won't work at all. In this episode, I will break down the five things you need to know about the new Wegovy pill. I will talk about the science behind SNAC technology, why this medication goes beyond weight loss, and what are the side effects to expect If you or someone you love is exploring weight loss medication options, this episode gives you the clarity to have a smarter conversation with your doctor. Listen now! Episode Highlights: Why the timing and conditions of how you take this pill are non-negotiable The science behind SNAC technology and why this pill can't just be swallowed with breakfast Why this medication goes beyond weight loss and also protects your heart What to do if you're already taking levothyroxine or other empty-stomach medications What side effects to expect,  and how much weight loss to realistically anticipate Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

If you're on Wegovy, Zepbound, Ozempic, or Mounjaro — and worried about what happens when you stop — this episode is for you. The fear of gaining it all back is real. But weight regain is not inevitable. It's manageable. And I'm going to show you how. "What happens when you stop your GLP-1?" This is one of the most common questions I get in my clinic every single week. It's time I answered it publicly — with science, not fear. In this episode, I break down exactly what happens in your body when you stop your GLP-1, why weight regain happens, and the five pillars you need to protect your results, whether you're stopping by choice or out of necessity. Listen now! Episode Highlights: The physiological reason hunger surges and metabolism slows when you stop GLP-1s  What the SURMOUNT-4 clinical trial tells us about weight regain after stopping Tirzepatide Who is at highest risk for regaining weight  The 5 pillars of weight maintenance: protein, resistance training, carb awareness, appetite retraining, and medication transition strategy Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''. Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

Every single week in my clinic, I see smart, motivated people stuck in their weight loss journey not because they're doing something wrong, but because they believe something wrong. The myths surrounding weight loss are so deeply embedded in our culture that even some physicians still repeat them. And the cost? Shame, delayed treatment, and people giving up on themselves unnecessarily. I've spent over a decade watching these myths do real damage and I'm done staying quiet about it. In this episode, I'm breaking down the top 5 weight loss myths I wish my patients would stop believing and replacing them with what the science actually says. If you've ever said "I just need more willpower" this episode is for you. Listen now!   Episode Highlights: Why "calories in, calories out" is an oversimplification of a complex metabolic system How metabolic adaptation explains why what worked before stops working Why obesity is a chronic, relapsing disease  The truth about weight loss medications and why using them is NOT cheating Why the scale is just data, not a report card, and what metabolic progress really looks like Why stopping everything after weight loss leads to weight regain, and what to do instead   Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd   About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

You're doing all the right things—showing up to the gym, getting your steps in, strength training—but that scale? Still not moving. Sound familiar? In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly how to eat to support your workouts without sabotaging your weight loss goals—and without overthinking it. No sports nutrition degree required, I promise. I've seen too many patients work incredibly hard in the gym only to undo their progress at the kitchen table. Exercise is powerful, but nutrition determines whether that exercise actually works for weight loss. And once you understand a few simple principles about pre- and post-workout nutrition, everything clicks into place. Learn why exercise alone doesn't guarantee weight loss, which common myths are holding you back, and how to fuel strategically for recovery and results.   Sign up for the Back on Track: Setting the Vision for your health Masterclass:  https://drshellymd.kit.com/ecc62a0638   Episode Highlights: Why exercise is powerful but nutrition determines whether it works for weight loss The truth about eating before and after workouts  Pre-workout fuel: when you need it, when you don't, and what actually works Post-workout recovery: protein targets, hydration basics, and avoiding the "reward" trap Special considerations for insulin resistance, PCOS, perimenopause, and GLP-1 users How to match your food to your workout type and intensity   Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd   About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

Dr. Eryn and Coach Vinny sit down with Dr. Karl Nadolsky, a board-certified physician specializing in obesity and metabolic health, to explore why weight loss is far more complex than calories, willpower, or trends. The conversation covers scope of practice, responsible collaboration between physicians and coaches, and how obesity is often misunderstood by both the public and professionals. Dr. Nadolsky breaks down how GLP-1 medications are prescribed in real clinical settings, where compounded and off-label use creates risk, and what long-term outcomes actually look like when behavior change is missing. They also discuss ethical concerns, prevention, and the future of obesity treatment, along with Dr. Nadolsky's clinic model and why he moved away from insurance-driven care. This episode is a grounded, evidence-based discussion for anyone serious about metabolic health and sustainable fat loss. Coach VinnyEmail: vinny@balancedbodies.ioInstagram: vinnyrusso_balancedbodiesFacebook: Vinny Russo Dr. ErynEmail: dr.eryn@balancedbodies.ioInstagram: dr.eryn_balancedbodiesFacebook: Eryn Stansfield Dr. Karl NadolskyInstagram: drkarlnadolskyWebsite: endocrineclinicatthegym.comPodcast: DocsWhoLift Podcast LEGION 20% OFF CODEGo to https://legionathletics.com/ and use the code RUSSO for 20% off your order!

Send us a textDemand for GLP-1 medications has exploded in recent years. What started as a diabetes treatment has quickly become one of the most talked-about forces in healthcare, reshaping how we think about obesity, metabolic disease, access, affordability, and long-term care.But with rapid growth comes confusion: questions about safety, cost, supply constraints, and whether the current system is actually capable of supporting patients for the long haul.Dr. Myra Ahmad, Founder and CEO of Mochi Health joins CareTalk host David E. Williams to discuss what's getting lost in the GLP-1 conversation, why most care models are not built for long-term obesity treatment, and how Mochi is approaching physician-guided metabolic care at scale.

BMI is one number, not the full story. Dr. Melody Rodarte breaks down what doctors miss and what actually matters.   In this episode, Josh sits down with Dr. Melody Rodarte, board-certified in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine, to unpack why BMI can be misleading, why "eat less, exercise more" is incomplete, and why calories are not metabolically equal. They cover GLP-1 medications and the right way to think about them, fasting vs timed restricted eating, autophagy, and why perimenopause can start earlier and last longer than most people realize. General discussion only, not medical advice.   __ Thank you to OneAccord for partnering with us on this episode. OneAccord's OASYS Strategic Planning & Execution system helps business owners increase company value, reduce owner dependency, and get truly ready for a successful transition or exit. Josh Zolin listeners receive a complimentary Value Readiness Snapshot using the link below.   Start here:  https://oneaccord.co/oasys/joshzolin __ ► Download Your 90 Day ROI Playbook — A value packed free guide created by Josh Zolin that teaches you how to Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains  https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook      

In this episode, we sit down with the board of PAs in Obesity Medicine (PAOM) for a candid, practice-focused conversation on elevating obesity care in primary care. From reframing obesity as a chronic disease to integrating evidence-based treatments into busy clinics, our guests share real-world insights, clinical pearls, and strategies PAs can use today. Whether you're new to obesity medicine or looking to deepen your impact, this episode offers a forward-looking look at how PAs are leading the future of comprehensive, compassionate obesity care.     For more information and resources on Obesity Medicine, you can visit: https://pasinobesitymedicine.mypanetwork.com/

Are GLP-1 medications truly revolutionizing medicine—or are we just seeing the latest healthcare hype cycle?In this part 1 of 2- part episode of Succeed In Medicine Podcast, Dr. Bradley Block sits down with Dr. Sean Wharton, to explore the real story behind GLP-1 agonists, how they were discovered, how they work, and why they suddenly became cultural blockbusters. Dr. Wharton explains that while the public sees these drugs as new, clinicians in diabetes care have been using them for over a decade. Originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 medications revealed an unexpected benefit: meaningful weight loss. What began as a “sleeper drug” for glucose control became a global phenomenon once their impact on appetite and cravings was understood.A major theme of the discussion is the concept of “food noise”—the relentless mental pull toward food that many patients experience. Dr. Wharton describes how this biological drive makes long-term weight loss extraordinarily difficult and why willpower alone is rarely enough. GLP-1 medications work by quieting this food noise, helping patients regain control over their eating behaviors.The conversation also tackles tough questions clinicians and patients ask every day:Why do people need to stay on these medications long-term? Why do patients with diabetes lose less weight than those without? Is obesity truly a disease, and how should doctors talk about it? Are the benefits due to the drug itself or simply the weight loss? Dr. Wharton breaks down the biology of GLP-1 hormones, their role in insulin regulation and appetite control, and why these drugs have been such rare “unicorns” in medicine, highly effective with relatively few side effects.This episode sets the stage for Part 2, where they will dive deeper into myths, side effects, and practical prescribing guidance.Three Actionable TakeawaysObesity Is a Biological Disease, Not a Willpower Problem: Food noise and cravings are driven by hormones and brain chemistry. GLP-1 medications treat these biological mechanisms, not a character flaw.Long-Term Treatment Is Often Necessary: Just like medications for blood pressure or cholesterol, GLP-1 drugs address a chronic condition. Stopping treatment usually means the underlying biology—and weight—returns.Language Matters in Patient Care: Clinicians should approach weight with empathy and humility. Inviting patients into a respectful conversation about options is far more effective than blaming or shaming.About the Show:Succeed In Medicine covers patient interactions, burnout, career growth, personal finance, and more. If you're tired of dull medical lectures, tune in for real-world lessons we should have learned in med school!About the Guest:Dr. Sean Wharton holds doctorates in Pharmacy and Medicine from the University of Toronto. He is the Director of the Wharton Medical Clinic, a community-based weight management and diabetes clinic, and serves as Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto and Adjunct Professor at McMaster and York Universities.Dr. Wharton is the lead author of the 2020 Canadian Obesity Guidelines, recognized worldwide, and has published extensively in major medical journals including the New England Journal of Medicine. He is a passionate advocate for health equity and improving the way obesity is understood and treated in healthcare.LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drseanwhartonWebsite: whartonmedicalclinic.comAbout the Host:Dr. Bradley Block – Dr. Bradley Block is a board-certified otolaryngologist at ENT and Allergy Associates in Garden City, NY. He specializes in adult and pediatric ENT, with interests in sinusitis and obstructive sleep apnea. Dr. Block also hosts Succeed In Medicine podcast, focusing on personal and professional development for physiciansWant to be a guest?Email Brad at brad@physiciansguidetodoctoring.com  or visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to learn more!Socials:@physiciansguidetodoctoring on Facebook@physicianguidetodoctoring on YouTube@physiciansguide on Instagram and Twitter  This medical podcast is your physician mentor to fill the gaps in your medical education. We cover physician soft skills, charting, interpersonal skills, doctor finance, doctor mental health, medical decisions, physician parenting, physician executive skills, navigating your doctor career, and medical professional development. This is critical CME for physicians, but without the credits (yet). A proud founding member of the Doctor Podcast Network!Visit www.physiciansguidetodoctoring.com to connect, dive deeper, and keep the conversation going. Let's grow! Disclaimer:This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, financial, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for personalized guidance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans just dropped, and they represent a major shift from rigid rules to personalized, sustainable nutrition. These aren't just recommendations—they shape what your doctor tells you, influence insurance policies, and determine what's served in schools and hospitals. In this episode, I break down the most important updates and translate them into simple, actionable steps you can implement today. No overwhelm, no perfection required—just practical strategies rooted in the latest research. Tune in to learn the new protein recommendations that could transform your weight loss results, why your cooking method matters more than you think, and which small changes create the biggest health impact over time. --- Sign up for the Back on Track: Setting the Vision for your health Masterclass:  https://drshellymd.kit.com/ecc62a0638   Episode Highlights: The new protein target: 1.2-1.6 grams per kilogram body weight (and why it matters for muscle preservation, satiety, and metabolic health) Why cooking methods can sabotage your progress—simple swaps from deep-fried to baked, roasted, or grilled The truth about fats: why healthy fats aren't the enemy and which ones to prioritize Practical carb guidance: focus on fiber-rich whole grains, not elimination Sugar reality check: keeping added sugars under 10 grams per meal Sodium targets and how to actually track your intake The permission to be flexible: mixing plant and animal proteins for variety and nutrition Why progress beats perfection—start with just one or two changes this week   Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd   About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

Show Notes:In this episode of 'Own Your Pleasure', Whitni Miller and her guest, Dr. Michelle Gordon, discuss the complexities of hormonal changes in women, particularly during perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Gordon emphasizes the importance of understanding how weight impacts hormonal health and the misconceptions surrounding weight loss. The discussion also covers sexual health, the role of various hormones, and the significance of finding a supportive healthcare provider who listens to women's concerns. Dr. Michelle Gordon is Board Certified in Obesity Medicine, Lifestyle Medicine, and General Surgery and is a Telehealth Innovator. After building and running a multi-million dollar surgical practice, she shifted her focus from surgery to weight management, hormone health, and longevity through high-impact telehealth for lesbian midlife women. She brings advanced, personalized care straight to you —without gatekeeping, delay, or the one-size-fits-all approach of traditional systems. Her background in surgery gives her a sharp clinical lens in obesity and lifestyle medicine. She's seen how strategic, non-surgical interventions can reverse complex metabolic disease. Her experience drives the results she delivers today, through evidence-based care that respects your time, autonomy, and goals. She uses telehealth to deliver high-quality, personalized care. This isn't a quick prescription model. She takes the time to understand each patient's goals, history, and challenges to create treatment plans that are safe, effective, and built for long-term success. Her mission is simple. She gives you clear, evidence-based guidance and real support throughout your health journey. You deserve more than a rushed visit or generic advice. She takes the time to understand what's actually going on so you can make lasting, meaningful changes together. You are never just a number. She works closely with you so you feel seen, heard, and respected from start to finish. With a foundation in clinical experience and systems thinking, she focuses on what works. She uses tools that make personalized medicine more accessible without compromising quality. This isn't about hype or trends. It's about real care, delivered with intention, one patient at a time. Follow Dr. Michelle Gordon at:TikTok: @drmichellegordon IG: @doctormichellegordon FB: @michelleEgordon Learn More From Whitni:https://www.bde-moves.com Follow Whitni at:IG - @bde.movesFB - groups/bdemovesYouTube - Podcast Channel = @BDE-Moves Old Channel = @BdeTalksTikTok - @bdemoves

In this episode of Health Matters, host Courtney Allison is joined by Dr. Rekha Kumar, endocrinologist and primary care physician at NewYork-Presbyterian and Weill Cornell Medicine, to unpack the science behind aging well. They discuss biohacking, longevity, and health span, separating evidence-based strategies from social media hype and exploring what truly helps us age well.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhat “biohacking” really means● How biohacking ranges from simple lifestyle optimization to high-tech, experimental interventions● The difference between lifespan (how long you live) and health span (how long you live well)The Longevity Pyramid● Why the foundation of healthy aging is built on:SleepMovement and strength trainingNutritionStress managementSocial connection● How advanced tools and supplements sit at the top—and why they should never replace the basicsWearables and Tracking● How devices like smartwatches, glucose monitors, and fitness trackers can support behavior change● When tracking becomes counterproductive or stressfulPeptides and “Anti-Aging” Supplements● What's proven (e.g., metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists)● What's still experimental or under-studied (BPC-157, sermorelin, NAD boosters)Nootropics and Cognitive Enhancers● Everyday nootropics like caffeine● The role of L-theanine for “calm focus”● Myths around perfectly timed caffeine and cortisol rhythmsNutrigenomics and Personalized Nutrition● How genes can influence responses to foods (e.g., lactose intolerance, APOE and saturated fat)● Why many direct-to-consumer genetic tests may overpromiseThe Gut Microbiome● The role of Akkermansia muciniphila in metabolic health● How medications like metformin and GLP-1s may positively shift gut bacteria● What's still unknown about probiotic supplementationGenetic and Biomarker Testing● The difference between actionable medical insights and “information overload”● Why results of unknown significance can cause unnecessary anxietyThe Big Takeaways● There are no true shortcuts to longevity● Sustainable habits beat quick fixes● Our biology is built for rhythms, not constant optimizationFeatured ExpertAbout Rekha B. Kumar, M.D., M.S.Dr. Rekha B. Kumar is an attending endocrinologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and an associate professor of Clinical Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine. She specializes in adult primary care and endocrinology and has academic expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of various endocrine disorders, including obesity/weight management, type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, as well as metabolic bone disease.Dr. Kumar completed her undergraduate studies at Duke University and received her masters degree in Physiology from Georgetown University. She received her M.D. from New York Medical College and completed her residency training in Internal Medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Dr. Kumar obtained her clinical fellowship in the combined Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Metabolism program at the NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center and the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Kumar is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetes, & Metabolism, and Obesity Medicine.Coming Up NextIn the next episode of Health Matters, we'll explore brain health and the short- and long-term effects of alcohol on the brain with Dr. Hugh Cahill. Subscribe and follow Health Matters on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to stay up to date with expert-driven conversations on living well at every stage of life.About Health MattersHealth Matters is your bi-weekly dose of health and wellness information, from the leading experts. Join host Courtney Allison to get news you can use in your own life. New episodes drop each Wednesday.If you are looking for practical health tips and trustworthy information from world-class doctors and medical experts you will enjoy listening to Health Matters. Health Matters was created to share stories of science, care, and wellness that are happening every day at NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation's most comprehensive, integrated academic healthcare systems. In keeping with NewYork-Presbyterian's long legacy of medical breakthroughs and innovation, Health Matters features the latest news, insights, and health tips from our trusted experts; inspiring first-hand accounts from patients and caregivers; and updates on the latest research and innovations in patient care, all in collaboration with our renowned medical schools, Columbia and Weill Cornell Medicine.To learn more visit: https://healthmatters.nyp.org

Host: Darryl S. Chutka, M.D.  Guest: Tamim Rajjo, M.D., M.P.H.  Using GLP-1 medication for weight loss has become very popular with our patients. In the recent past, this has produced a shortage of these medications available, and those taking them for management of diabetes have found them difficult to obtain. Although in most cases, they are quite successful in producing substantial weight loss, many have regained weight after the medication was discontinued. How much weight can patients expect to lose with these medications? When should these medications be stopped, or should they? Are there strategies that have shown benefit to help patients maintain the weight they lose once the medication is discontinued? This podcast is the second of three on using the GLP-1 medications for weight loss and we'll discuss “The Importance of Lifestyle Changes with the Use of GLP-1 Medications for Weight Loss”. My guest is Dr. Tamim Rajjo, a physician trained in Preventive Medicine and Obesity Medicine from the Mayo Clinic.  Rx for Weight Loss: A Closer Look Series | Mayo Clinic School of Continuous Professional Development  Connect with us and learn more here: https://ce.mayo.edu/online-education/content/mayo-clinic-podcasts 

If you're a midlife woman who feels like you're doing everything right — lifting weights, eating well, walking, managing stress — and your body still isn't responding, this episode is for you.In this powerful, myth-busting conversation, I'm joined by Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, a triple board-certified endocrinologist, obesity medicine specialist, author, and early adopter of GLP-1 therapies in the U.S. Dr. Salas-Whalen helps us understand why weight gain in midlife is not a willpower problem — it's a biology problem.We break down:Why midlife metabolism changes so dramatically during perimenopause and menopauseHow GLP-1 medications actually work (in plain English)Why muscle is the true organ of longevity — and how to protect it while using GLP-1sThe truth about side effects like hair loss, nausea, and “Ozempic face”Microdosing vs. full dosing, long-term use, and what's coming next in obesity medicineWhy shame-based weight loss advice is outdated — and harmfulWe also talk about Dr. Salas-Whalen's new book, Weightless, a science-backed, compassionate guide to GLP-1 medications and metabolic health that validates what so many women have experienced for decades. You can find Weightless wherever books are sold.This episode is about options, not pressure. Facts, not fear. And building health for the long game.Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drsalaswhalen/Website https://www.nyendocrinology.com/_________________________________________1:1 health and nutrition coaching or Faster Way - Reach me anytime at mailto:mfolanfasterway@gmail.com If you're doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, it may be time to look deeper. I've partnered with EllieMD, a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 peptide therapy—to support metabolic health and longevity. https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products. ✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fq

In this important episode, I break down the newly FDA-approved Wegovy pill and what it means for obesity treatment. The first oral GLP-1 medication for obesity has arrived, offering a needle-free alternative to weekly injections. This development could transform access for patients who've avoided treatment due to injection hesitation, cost barriers, or preference for daily pill routines. Tune in to learn what the Wegovy pill is, how it works, and why it represents a major step forward in giving patients more options for sustainable weight loss. Sign up for the Back on Track: Setting the Vision for your health Masterclass:  https://drshellymd.kit.com/ecc62a0638   Episode Highlights: How the Wegovy pill works as a daily medication vs. weekly injections The science behind GLP-1 receptor agonists and appetite regulation Clinical data showing approximately 13.6% body weight reduction Overcoming injection hesitation—a major barrier to treatment adherence Proper dosing: daily pill on empty stomach with specific timing requirements Common side effects and important black box warnings to know Affordable self-pay pricing: starting at $149/month through NovoCare pharmacy program Why more options mean better care for chronic disease management   Connect with Dr. Alicia Shelly: Website | drshellymd.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/drshellymd Instagram | @drshellymd Linked In | www.linkedin.com/in/drshellymd Twitter | @drshellymd   About Dr. Alicia Shelly Dr. Alicia Shelly was raised in Atlanta, GA. She received her Doctorate of Medicine from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland, OH.  Dr. Shelly has been practicing Primary Care and Obesity medicine since 2014.  In 2017, she became a Diplomat of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the lead physician at the Wellstar Medical Center Douglasville. She started a weekly podcast & Youtube channel entitled Back on Track: Achieving Healthy Weight loss,  where she discusses how to get on track and stay on track with your weight loss journey. She has spoken for numerous local and national organizations, including the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Georgia Chapter of the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgeons. She has been featured on CNN, Fox 5 News, Bruce St. James Radio show, Upscale magazine, and Shape.com. She was named an honoree of the 2021 Atlanta Business Chronicle's 40 under 40 award. She also is a collaborating author for the, "Made for More: Physician Entrepreneurs who Live Life and Practice Medicine on their own terms''.   Resources: FREE! Discover the 5 Reasons Your Weight-Loss Journey Has Gotten Derailed (And How To Get Back On Track!)

Dr. Jen Ashton- you know her as the chief medical correspondent for ABC News and Good Morning America, who appeared in your home every morning, explaining the hot topics in health.  Today, we talk about her pivot into her passion- fitness and wellness- and how to incorporate into the second half of your life..and love your age.  How Dr. Ashton ended up as an anchor on Good Morning America How she has reinvented herself as a wellness and obesity expert We revisit “The Reinvention Convention we participated in years ago The key traits of women who “Love their Age.” Why Dr. Ashton is learning to play Mah Jong How to plan for the second half of life For women who don't love their age, what should they accept and… not accept Dr. Ashton's Wellness Experiment The difference between wellness and longevity What most doctors get wrong about nutrition The concept of “nutritional gynecology”  “Super foods” Menopause nutrition Exercise after age 55- for the avid exerciser and the never excerciser Why BAREFOOT Training is important Dr. Jennifer Ashton is board-certified in OB-GYN and Obesity Medicine with a Master's degree in Nutrition from Columbia University. She is the Founder and President of Ajenda, a multimedia health platform focused on science-driven metabolic and hormonal health for women. For 12 years, Dr. Ashton was seen by millions of people daily on national television as the  Chief Medical Correspondent for ABC News and co-host of  GMA3: What You Need to Know.  She was the first woman and only the third physician to hold that role in network history. https://www.instagram.com/drjashton/?hl=enhttps://www.instagram.com/joinajenda/?hl=enhttps://www.joinajenda.com/experiment COME AGAIN is a 30-part audio series to address the biological, hormonal, and medical issues that can sabotage your sex life. This solution-driven, science-based guide will help get your libido to kick in and your clitoral nerve endings to wake up.For more information, go to DrStreicher.com/COMEAGAINDr. Streicher is on SUBSTACK      DrStreicher.Substack.com Articles Monthly News Flash Reports on recent research  Monthly Zoom Ask Me Anything Webinar Lauren Streicher MD, is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, the founding medical director of the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause, and a Senior Research Fellow of The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. She is a certified menopause practitioner of The Menopause Society. Dr. Streicher is the medical correspondent for Chicago's top-rated news program, the WGN Morning News, and has been seen on The Today Show, Good Morning America, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNN, NPR, Dr. Radio, Nightline, Fox and Friends, The Steve Harvey Show, CBS This Morning, ABC News Now, NBCNightlyNews,20/20, and World News Tonight. She is an expert source for many magazines and serves on the medical advisory board of The Kinsey Institute, Self Magazine, and Prevention Magazine. She writes a regular column for The Ethel by AARP and Prevention Magazine.   LINKS Subscribe To Dr. Streicher's Substack Information About COME AGAIN Dr. Streicher's CV and additional bio information To Find a Menopause Clinician and Other Resources  Glossary Of Medical Terminology Books by Lauren Streicher, MD  Slip Sliding Away: Turning Back the Clock on Your Vagina-A gynecologist's guide to eliminating post-menopause dryness and pain Hot Flash Hell: A Gynecologist's Guide to Turning Down the Heat Sex Rx- Hormones, Health, and Your Best Sex Ever The Essential Guide to Hysterectomy                                     Dr. Streicher's Inside Information podcast is for education and information and is not intended to replace medical advice from your personal healthcare clinician. Dr. Streicher disclaims liability for any medical outcomes that may occur because of applying methods suggested or discussed in this podcast.                     

“It is more dangerous to your health not to have muscle mass than to have excess body fat,” explains Rocío Salas-Whalen, M.D. Salas-Whalen, a board-certified Endocrinologist, Obesity Medicine specialist, and widely recognized as one of the earliest adopters of GLP-1 therapies in the United States, joins us today to explain how GLP-1s work, who truly benefits, and the crucial steps you need to take to protect your metabolism along the way. - How to know if GLP-1s are right for you (~4:00) - Are there longevity benefits of GLP-1s? (~5:10) - Types of body composition profiles (~7:00) - How to protect your muscle mass on GLP-1s (~8:50) - Protein recommendations (~12:00) - Common mistakes (~13:00) - Conversations to have with your provider (~14:25) - Getting off GLP-1s (~18:05) - The most important steps to build muscle (~19:30) - HRT + GLP-1s (~21:30) - Who should not take GLP-1s (~25:05) - The importance of lifestyle (~27:55) - The internal gains of GLP-1s (~29:45) - The mindset needed for long-term success (~31:35) - GLP-1s for minors? (~37:55) - The future of this space (~42:00) Referenced in the episode:  - Follow Salas-Whalen on Instagram (@drsalaswhalen)  - Pick up her book, Weightless (https://weightlessthebook.com/)   - Work with her (https://www.nyendocrinology.com/home)  - Liraglutide in mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-025-04106-7)  We hope you enjoy this episode, and feel free to watch the full video on YouTube! Whether it's an article or podcast, we want to know what we can do to help here at mindbodygreen. Let us know at: podcast@mindbodygreen.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Danielle and Whitney sit down with Dr. Elizabeth Sharp, a board-certified Internal and Obesity Medicine physician, functional medicine practitioner, and founder of Health Meets Wellness and The TouchCare Method. Together, they explore how dramatically the GLP-1 landscape has evolved—from early use in diabetes and clinical obesity to widespread microdosing, off-label protocols, emerging oral versions, and new research on inflammation, dementia risk, PCOS, and IBD. Dr. Sharp breaks down what the science actually says, who these medications can help, and the real considerations we all should be talking about. Dr. Sharp shares:  What GLP-1 medications actually do in the body Why food noise is different from food addiction The critical role of diet, protein, fiber, and movement on GLP-1s How to protect muscle mass and metabolic health GLP-1 use during perimenopause and menopause She also dives into the importance of resistance training, daily strength “snacks,” and the rising role of creatine for women, cognition, and anyone on GLP-1s. Dr. Sharp leaves us with a powerful piece of lightwork you can integrate immediately—wherever you are in your health journey. Check out the video version on the Sakara Life YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/ZA3Knfq7NCY  Elizabeth Sharp Edens, M.D., DABOM, IFMCP is a board-certified Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine physician, an Institute for Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner, and the founder of Health Meets Wellness and The TouchCare Method. She created Health Meets Wellness to make functional, root-cause medicine more accessible — blending evidence-based clinical care with movement, nutrition, and lifestyle medicine to help patients achieve lasting wellness. A certified yoga instructor, she weaves daily movement practices into treatment plans, believing medicine works best when paired with mindful physical activity. Building on her clinical work, Dr. Sharp launched The TouchCare Method, an innovative digital obesity medicine and weight-management platform offering high-touch, wrap-around care both in-person and online. The platform integrates medical treatment, nutrition, exercise, behavioral health, and data-driven insights into one comprehensive program — providing patients with continuous support through virtual coaching, AI-enhanced engagement, and remote monitoring. Dr. Sharp developed the Health Meets Wellness Method in collaboration with Troy Flanagan, Ph.D., and Susie Parker-Simmons, RDN, to address metabolic health through a multifaceted, personalized approach. Her work focuses on treating obesity as a chronic disease—combining medication management with individualized nutrition, physical activity, and behavioral strategies for sustainable results. She also serves as an Assistant Professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from St. George's University School of Medicine and completed her internal medicine residency at Lenox Hill Hospital. She went on to practice with Mount Sinai Doctors, where she received the Cullman Family Award for Excellence in Physician Communication, and later worked at One Medical.