n this episode of Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright explore cravings and the role they play in metabolic dysfunction.

If you watch some drug company commercials these days, you’d think cravings are the culprit for obesity. In reality, they are just a symptom of a deeper metabolic problem.

This episode of Fat Science uncovers why this oversimplification is not just misleading but harmful to those struggling with metabolic dysfunction.

Join us as we explore the science behind cravings, debunk common myths and highlight the importance of understanding your metabolic health.

Key Takeaways:

Not Just an Overeating Problem: Learn why targeting cravings alone is not the answer to managing weight and metabolic health.

Metabolic Dysfunction Explained: Discover how metabolic dysfunction manifests in various forms, such as irregular appetite signals, and why addressing the root cause is crucial for effective treatment.

The Role of Medications: Dr. Cooper breaks down commonly-prescribed medications like Contrave, Qsymia, and Saxenda—explaining their true function in strengthening metabolic pathways rather than merely suppressing cravings.

Misleading Advertising: Understand the detrimental effects of current advertising campaigns that focus on willpower and cravings and how they perpetuate weight stigma and misinformation.

Resources:

• Connect with Dr. Emily Cooper on LinkedIn.
• Connect with Mark Wright on LinkedIn.
• Connect with Andrea Taylor on Instagram.

Fat Science is a podcast on a mission to explain where our fat really comes from and why it won’t go and stay away. We are committed to creating a world where people are empowered with accurate information about metabolism and recognize that fat isn’t a failure. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.

If you have a question for Dr. Cooper, a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@diabesityinstitute.org.

Fat Science is supported by the non-profit Diabesity Institute which is on a mission to increase access to effective, science-based medical care for those suffering from or at risk for diabesity. https://diabesityresearchfoundation.org/

In this episode of Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright explore one of the most contentious topics in the world of health and fitness: the definition and measurement of fat.

BMI (Body Mass Index) has long been the standard, but recent studies have called its efficacy into question.

Dr. Cooper reveals why BMI can be a flawed indicator of health, exploring alternate measurements like waist circumference and body composition while discussing their limitations and potential misuses.

This episode highlights the real issue: identifying and treating metabolic dysfunction and achieving true health beyond just numbers on a scale or tape measure.

Key Takeaways:

BMI: A Flawed Metric? Dr. Cooper reveals the limitations of BMI. She shares intriguing insights into how factors like muscle mass and gender-specific body composition can skew BMI readings and recounts fascinating stories from her career, including a case where an Olympic athlete was classified as obese purely based on BMI.

The Lancet's Insight. The team discusses a recent paper by the esteemed Lancet Commission, which argues for de-emphasizing BMI in favor of other health indicators. They dive into the importance of looking at the complete clinical picture, including blood sugar swings, energy levels, and more.

Anecdotes and Real-life Experiences. Andrea Taylor shares her journey of struggling with various diets until discovering metabolic dysfunction as the root problem.

Insurance and Medical Ethics. Discover the ethical dilemmas of using BMI for decisions on insurance coverage and medical treatments. Mark brings attention to startling cases where statistically healthy individuals were denied life insurance based on high BMI.

Resources:

• Connect with Dr. Emily Cooper on LinkedIn.
• Connect with Mark Wright on LinkedIn.
• Connect with Andrea Taylor on Instagram.

Fat Science is a podcast on a mission to explain where our fat really comes from and why it won’t go and stay away. We are committed to creating a world where people are empowered with accurate information about metabolism and recognize that fat isn’t a failure. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.

If you have a question for Dr. Cooper, a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@diabesityinstitute.org.

Fat Science is supported by the non-profit Diabesity Institute which is on a mission to increase access to effective, science-based medical care for those suffering from or at risk for diabesity. https://diabesityresearchfoundation.org/

In this episode of Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright explore five New Year’s resolutions you can make (and not break) for a healthier 2025.

The conversation shifts away from unattainable goals and toward practical steps for enhancing overall well-being in the new year.

Key Takeaways:

1. Address Metabolic Syndrome
   If you suspect you have metabolic syndrome, 2025 is the year to take action. Dr. Cooper explains how to identify and address it with testing and medical guidance.
2. Health Over Beach Body
   Shift the focus from attaining a "beach body" to improving your overall health. Andrea discusses the importance of self-acceptance and the harm of societal pressures.
3. Don't Diet
   Commit to not dieting. Dr. Cooper emphasizes the metabolic dangers of calorie restriction and the benefits of balanced nutrition.
4. Get Enough Sleep
   Quality sleep is crucial for metabolic health. Learn why 7-9 hours of sleep and timing your sleep cycles matter.
5. Be Kind to Yourself
   Embrace self-love and physiologic intuition. Andrea shares how this has transformed her relationship with food and body image.

Resources:

• Connect with Dr. Emily Cooper on LinkedIn.
• Connect with Mark Wright on LinkedIn.
• Connect with Andrea Taylor on Instagram.

Fat Science is a podcast on a mission to explain where our fat really comes from and why it won’t go and stay away. We are committed to creating a world where people are empowered with accurate information about metabolism and recognize that fat isn’t a failure. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.

If you have a question for Dr. Cooper, a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, email us at info@diabesityinstitute.org.

Fat Science is supported by the non-profit Diabesity Institute which is on a mission to increase access to effective, science-based medical care for those suffering from or at risk for diabesity. https://diabesityresearchfoundation.org/