In this episode, Dr. Jockers discusses the ketogenic diet, blood sugar control, and diabetes. He reflects on how the ketogenic diet's popularity has grown over the years and shares new insights and learnings from his experiences. Dr. Jockers highlights the importance of this diet in managing diabetes and improving overall health. Join us on this enlightening journey as we explore the science behind this powerful dietary approach and its myriad benefits for blood sugar regulation. This episode is your one-stop podcast for unlocking the secrets of the ketogenic diet and its incredible impact on blood sugar management. 

Fueling the Body: Unraveling the Ketogenic Diet's High-Fat Magic

The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high-fat, and moderate-protein approach that involves cutting out sugars, grains, and high-carb foods, favoring healthy fats like avocados, olive oil, and grass-fed meats. This triggers ketosis, where the body efficiently burns fat for energy, aiding weight loss. Fat's satiating effect reduces hunger, and lower carbohydrate intake leads to decreased insulin levels, promoting overall health.

Unlocking the Fat-Burning Potential: The Vital Role of Reducing Insulin Levels

The ketogenic diet reduces blood sugar levels and improves control by limiting carbs and increasing healthy fats, leading to ketosis, where the body burns fat for fuel. This lowers insulin levels, addressing insulin resistance and promoting fat utilization. Ketones, produced during ketosis, offer various health benefits.

Safeguarding Through Inflammation: The Body's Intricate Defense Mechanism Against Food Threats

Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism in the body against infection and foreign substances. Yet, chronic inflammation can be detrimental to health and increase the risk of various diseases. Dr. Jockers explains that food consumption can trigger inflammation, and adopting a ketogenic diet and fasting can help reduce it. When we eat, the body perceives food as a potential threat due to microbes and harmful substances it may contain. Consequently, the body initiates an inflammatory response to protect itself. Certain dietary choices, like high-carbohydrate foods raising insulin levels, and frequent eating throughout the day, can lead to chronic inflammation by consistently activating these inflammatory pathways. This constant presence of high insulin levels puts the body on high alert, sending inflammation signals throughout the entire system.

Key Takeaways:

00:11 Ketogenic diet improves blood sugar
10:23 Ketones and fasting reduce inflammation
10:58 Inflammation and ketosis explained
22:04 Transitioning to a ketogenic diet
22:18 Stay hydrated and consume electrolytes
32:28 Ketogenic diet can reverse diabetes
33:04 Personalized approach for optimal health
38:40 Revitalize your energy: hydrate with more water

Resources:

Website: https://drjockers.com/
Books: https://drjockers.lpages.co/keto-metabolic-breakthrough-b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjockers/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDavidJockers/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/djockers

Dr. Amy McKenzie discusses the work at Virta Health, an online specialty medical clinic that treats patients with type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and pre-diabetes. Virta's treatment approach includes a ketogenic diet and technology-enabled continuous remote care. By using this approach, Virta Health has been able to help patients reduce or eliminate insulin and other oral medications. Clinical trials have significantly improved patients' insulin requirements and other medication reductions. Tune in as we chat about Virta Health's game-changing new model for optimal management when it comes to diabetes.

How the Ketogenic Diet Empowers Insulin Users to Slash Dependency

The ketogenic diet has gained significant attention recently for its potential benefits in managing various health conditions, including type 2 diabetes. One organization at the forefront of utilizing this diet for diabetes management is Virta Health. Virta Health is an online specialty medical clinic focusing on patients with type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and pre-diabetes. Their treatment approach addresses the underlying principle of insulin resistance common to these conditions. The primary component of their protocol is a ketogenic diet or nutritional ketosis. This diet involves consuming ultra-low carbohydrate meals that force the body to rely on fat for energy instead of glucose.

Unleashing the Power of Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Diabetes Medication

Reducing medication for diabetes is a topic of great interest and importance in the field of healthcare. Diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management to control blood sugar levels and prevent complications. Traditionally, medications have been a critical component of diabetes treatment, helping to lower blood sugar and manage the disease. However, there is growing evidence that reducing medication use, particularly insulin, can have significant benefits for patients with type 2 diabetes. The ketogenic diet has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and promote weight loss. By following this diet, patients can reduce their reliance on medications, including insulin, and improve blood sugar control.

Revolutionizing Diabetes Care: Introducing a Game-Changing New Model for Optimal Management

The Virta Health program uses a ketogenic diet, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduces insulin dependence in type 2 diabetes. By limiting carbohydrates, the body relies on fats for energy, improving insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control. The program offers continuous remote care and physician monitoring through an app-based system. It provides ongoing support, accountability, and treatment adjustments. Peer support is also available to connect patients and foster a sense of community.

Key Takeaways:

[04:49] A ketogenic diet reduces insulin use
[07:03] Reducing medications improves diabetes management
[13:50] Importance of weight loss in diabetes reversal
[19:03] Ketones have potential health benefits
[23:06] Health coaching improves diabetes management
[27:33] Improve patient outcomes through research
[33:14] Make research evidence freely accessible

Resources:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amymckenzie5/
Virta Health: https://www.virtahealth.com/
Research: https://www.virtahealth.com/research

In this episode, CJ Walker, also known as the Genetic Diabetic, speaks about LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes of Adulthood), a condition often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes. CJ shares her personal experience with being misdiagnosed and ultimately diagnosed with LADA and discusses the key things to know about this condition. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in learning more about LADA and how it differs from other types of diabetes. Listeners will gain valuable insights into this lesser-known form of diabetes and learn how to recognize the symptoms and seek appropriate care.

LADA: The Diabetes That Falls in Between

LADA, or Latent Autoimmune Diabetes of Adulthood, is a condition that is often misdiagnosed. Some people call it type 1.5 diabetes, as it shares characteristics of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. LADA is a form of diabetes caused by an autoimmune response that attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This results in gradually losing insulin production, leading to high blood sugar levels.

One of the key differences between type 2 diabetes and LADA is the age of onset. Type 2 diabetes typically occurs in adults over the age of 45, while LADA can occur at any age but is most commonly diagnosed in adults between the ages of 30 and 50. Additionally, LADA is more common in people who are not overweight or obese, while type 2 diabetes is often associated with obesity.

Advocating for Diabetes: A Never-Ending Fight

Diabetes is a chronic illness that requires constant advocacy; this is especially true for those with LADA, a form of diabetes that is often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes. CJ shares her experience of being misdiagnosed with type 2 diabetes and her frustration with ineffective treatments. It was only after advocating for herself and doing her research that CJ could receive a proper diagnosis of LADA. CJ highlights the need for individuals with diabetes to be proactive in their healthcare and not be afraid to speak up and ask questions.

LADA: The Autoimmune Diabetes That Needs Careful Management

LADA, a form of diabetes with an autoimmune origin, involves the immune system attacking healthy tissues and cells. Unlike type 1 diabetes, LADA progresses slowly and is often diagnosed in adulthood. To preserve pancreatic function and insulin production, it is important to manage LADA by minimizing stress on the pancreas. This includes avoiding processed sugars and refined flour that can trigger insulin surges. While an ultra-low-carb or keto diet isn't required, it's essential to be mindful of food choices and their impact on blood sugar levels.

Key Takeaways:

[00:21] LADA, Latent Autoimmune Diabetes of Adulthood
[04:14] Type 1.5 diabetes diagnosis
[08:27] Autoimmune conditions and proper diagnosis
[14:39] Managing diabetes takes decision-making
[16:39] Hormonal differences in diabetes
[21:09] Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults
[25:03] Managing LADA with medications
[29:14] Diabetes support and resources

Resources:

Website: https://thegeneticdiabeticblog.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thegeneticdiabetic/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegeneticdiabeticblog/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegeneticdiabeticblog/

We are lucky to be joined by the "Carb Addiction Doc,” Dr. Robert Cywes. Dr. Cywes works in the trenches and has a wealth of knowledge to share about preventing and managing diabetes. This episode touches on the challenges of balancing conventional and natural approaches to diabetes treatment. Plus, Dr. Cywes discusses the various ways to minimize your chances of developing diabetes and the importance of changing one's mindset to improve health outcomes. This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone looking to prevent diabetes, manage diabetes, and tackle diabetes risk factors.

Diabetes: A Growing Problem, a Growing Need for Solutions

Medication is a tool that can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including diabetes. However, it is essential to understand that medication alone cannot fix the root cause of the problem. In the case of diabetes, high blood sugar is just the tip of the iceberg. There is much more to be addressed to truly help those with diabetes.

Dr. Cywes emphasizes the importance of addressing behavior and treating the cause of the disease. Medication can be used as an accelerant to treatment, but it should not be relied on as the sole solution. Instead, medication should be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes and addressing the root cause of the problem. This can ultimately lead to remission of the disease and the ability to deprescribe medication.

CGMs: A Game-Changer for Diabetes Care

One crucial tool for managing diabetes is the continuous glucose monitor (CGM). CGMs provide real-time information about blood sugar levels, which is essential for effective diabetes management. Blood sugar levels should not be a flat line. Instead, blood sugar levels should fluctuate within an appropriate range for each individual. CGMs can help patients understand their blood sugar fluctuations and adjust their diet and medication as needed.

Sugar Trap: How to Avoid Insulin Resistance and Diabetes

Dr. Cywes highlights the adverse effects of excess sugar consumption on insulin resistance. The body has a delicate balance between glucagon and insulin, which work together to stabilize blood sugar levels. However, when excess carbohydrates or protein are consumed, the body prioritizes the storage of these nutrients, leading to insulin dominance instead of glucagon dominance. This can lead to insulin resistance, where the body blocks the insulin receptors to protect cells from the damaging effects of excess sugar.

Key Takeaways:

[02:31] Treating diabetes beyond blood sugar
[07:06] Blood sugar and glucagon
[11:53] Insulin and glucagon dominance
[17:36] Insulin resistance causes and theories
[21:26] Carbohydrates and fat consumption
[25:09] Medication for insulin resistance
[32:25] Insulin management in diabetes
[36:19] Insulin testing and dysregulation
[40:11] Glucagon's importance in health
[43:04] Satiety hormones and pathways
[57:10] Insulin suppression in carnivores
[01:03:06] Personalized medicine

Resources:

JSAPA: https://obesityunderstood.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk4Mk7vArjSYBa1VKv9-chA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carbaddictiondoc/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carbaddictiondoc/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@carbaddictio

Are you pregnant and have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes? Are you looking for nutrition advice to help you have a healthy pregnancy? Do you have food sensitivities that are affecting your blood sugar levels? If so, then this podcast with Dr. Christine Maren is for you! In this podcast, we will discuss gestational diabetes, nutrition advice for a healthy pregnancy, food sensitivities, blood sugar management, and elimination diets. Tune in as we chat about the importance of healthy fats during breastfeeding and some of the most significant health issues impacting fertility. 

Gestational Diabetes: Nutrition Advice for a Healthy Pregnancy

Gestational diabetes affects pregnant women, causing high blood sugar levels, and the lack of discussion around it may make women hesitant to deviate from their doctor's advice. Dr. Christine Maren's podcast shares her personal experience with gestational diabetes and conflicting nutrition advice, such as the recommendation to follow a high-carb, whole-grain diet, which led to blood sugar spikes. The confusion arises from the misconception that whole wheat bread is better than white bread for blood sugar levels. Additionally, the advice to consume 50% carbs but low fat left her unsure of suitable food choices.

The Link Between Food Sensitivities and Blood Sugar Management

Not all carbohydrates are created equal. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) does not differentiate between types of carbohydrates, treating all carbs as equal; this can be problematic for individuals with gestational diabetes, type 2 diabetes, pre-diabetes, and even type 1 diabetes. Consuming high-carbohydrate foods can cause blood sugar levels to spike, leading to complications and health issues.

Elimination Diet: A Guide to Identifying Food Sensitivities

Food sensitivities can contribute to various health issues, including gastrointestinal problems, skin rashes, mental health issues, and inflammatory states. Identifying and eliminating these sensitivities can be crucial for individuals looking to improve their overall health and well-being. The top three food sensitivities are dairy, gluten, and eggs. While these foods are nutrient-dense and beneficial for many people, some individuals may have sensitivities that cause negative reactions.

The best way to learn about food sensitivities is through elimination diets and food sensitivity testing. Elimination diets involve removing potential trigger foods from the diet for at least four weeks and then slowly reintroducing them one at a time to see if any physical reactions occur. Food sensitivity testing can also be helpful, but it is essential to interpret the results with caution, especially if the individual is already on an elimination diet. By taking control of their diet and identifying potential trigger foods, individuals can improve their quality of life and reduce the negative effects of food sensitivities.

Key Takeaways:

[10:10] How food sensitivities play a role in different stressors
[18:30] What are some of the side effects of gluten?
[20:35] The importance of healthy fats during pregnancy and breastfeeding
[28:10] What are some of the biggest health issues impacting fertility?
[32:15] Advice for people who are newly diagnosed with diabetes.

Resources:

Website: https://drchristinemaren.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrChristineMaren/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc2X8HJUMZCjDEHveGLjggQ
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/dr_maren/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinemaren/
12 Ways to Detox Your Home: https://drchristinemaren.com/gift/

Drew Manning, the "Fit2Fat2Fit Guy," experienced a unique transformation journey after gaining 75 pounds in 2011. Drew explains his story with Dr. Brian, including how he stopped exercising and ate a standard American diet to gain weight. Drew shares his knowledge of the complex factors influencing weight loss and health change, such as hormones, mental and emotional factors, and food addiction. He also talks about the disconnect between himself and his clients before the experiment due to his never being overweight and how that changed when he completed the Fit2Fat2Fit experiment. 

Lessons Learned From Drew's Fit2Fat2Fit Experience 

Drew experienced first-hand how powerful emotional eating can be. Food is the most accessible drug in the United States because it gives us a dopamine hit. Our brains crave more of that dopamine hit, so we eat more. This dopamine hit is why it is so hard for people to get off processed foods and onto healthier options. It is like going through withdrawal symptoms.

Drew faced cravings but stayed on track with his transformation plan thanks to accountability and motivation from followers. He also learned that transformation involves mental and emotional aspects, addressing food addiction, self-sabotage, nutrient processing, genetics, and hormone balance. Despite the complexity, with motivation and accountability, he achieved a healthier life.

Health and Your Relationship With Food

Genetics can impact our relationship with food. Emotional attachments formed in childhood, such as associating ice cream with rewards, can lead to reaching for it during emotional moments. It's crucial to be aware of our eating patterns and behaviors, considering how genetics influence our relationship with food. With motivation and support, making the necessary changes for a healthier life is achievable.

Weight Loss Is Highly Individualized 

Despite genetic influences on our relationship with food, it's possible to achieve a healthier life. Understanding our own food patterns is crucial. Comparing ourselves to online influencers and expecting their results is unrealistic. Weight loss is a complex and individual journey, requiring empathy for those facing challenges.

Key Takeaways:

[02:14] Getting fat to motivate clients.
[03:58] Complex factors in diabetes management.
[07:00] Processed food and addiction.
[17:14] Emotional eating habits.
[20:30] Fitness industry and body types.
[27:10] Accessibility to healthy food.
[29:11] Overcoming mental and emotional hurdles.
[38:10] Maintaining weight loss.
[41:22] Self-love and healthy lifestyles
[45:10] Age and fitness transformation.

Resources:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fit2fat2fit/
Website: https://fit2fat2fit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fit2fat2fit/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/fit2fat2fit
Fit2Fat2Fit: The Unexpected Lessons from Gaining and Losing 75 lbs on Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/Fit2Fat2Fit-Unexpected-Lessons-Gaining-Purpose/dp/0062194216
Complete Keto: A Guide to Transforming Your Body and Your Mind for Life: https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Keto-Guide-Transforming-Your/dp/1401956262/

In this episode, Angelique Panagos, a nutritional therapist from the UK, joins the show to chat about the topics of hormones, digestion, and blood sugar health. Angelique shares that blood sugar is the cornerstone of her work as it significantly impacts energy levels, hormonal symptoms, mental clarity, and overall quality of life. She emphasizes the importance of balancing blood sugar levels to help reverse hormonal conditions and improve people's quality of life. This episode provides valuable insights into the role of nutrition in promoting overall health and wellness. Tune in for a conversation about the benefits of functional medicine and how it can help clients effectively manage various health conditions.

Balancing Blood Sugar Levels

Maintaining balanced blood sugar levels is essential for optimal health and well-being. Nutritional therapist Angelique Panagos believes that balancing blood sugar levels is the cornerstone of her work and is vital for improving people's quality of life. When our blood sugar levels become unbalanced, it can lead to various issues, from hormonal imbalances and digestive problems to poor mental clarity and low energy. 

When working with clients, Angelique analyzes their diets for refined carbohydrates, sugary foods, long periods without eating, and caffeine. She also requests a food and mood diary to understand their eating habits and mood changes. Nutritional therapists can help identify imbalances and create a plan to achieve balanced blood sugar levels, emphasizing the importance of paying attention to our diets.

Reduce Stress and Eat Better

One of the most common mistakes that can lead to poor blood sugar levels is eating desserts for breakfast. Clever marketing has tricked many people, making identifying healthy food choices difficult. Eating processed foods and sugary snacks can also lead to poor blood sugar levels. 

Modern life often causes stress, which can harm our health and affect our blood sugar levels. To minimize stress, taking time for self-care is crucial, along with being mindful of our diets. Practicing self-care and eating a balanced diet can improve our overall health and well-being.

Make Lifestyle Changes To Balance Hormones

One of the most important things we can do to improve our health is to make lifestyle changes to balance our hormones. Hormones are crucial for our overall health and well-being, and when they are out of balance, they can significantly impact our physical and mental health.

Hormonal imbalances can affect stress hormones, sex hormones, and thyroid hormones, causing various symptoms such as tiredness, irritability, and hair loss. To balance hormones, we need lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, eating a balanced diet, and practicing self-care. Yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can help reduce stress.

Key Takeaways

[00:01:10] Importance of blood sugar health.
[00:05:17] Dessert for breakfast.
[00:07:27] Deceptive marketing of "healthy" foods.
[00:10:38] Sugar and hormone balance.
[00:14:21] Hormones and stress interplay.
[00:18:00] Hormonal effects on health.
[00:21:44] Changing diet for PCOS.
[00:25:13] PCOS and sugar addiction.
[00:29:18] Hormonal balance and diet.
[00:33:32] Food industry's social responsibility.

Resources

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angeliquepanagos
Energy Masterclass: https://angeliquepanagos.lpages.co/energy-masterclass/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/apnutrition
The Balance Plan: https://www.amazon.com/Balance-Plan-Optimize-Hormonal-Health/dp/1912023040
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpDBzJwNoPCfuI6rlfOc6bw
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angeliquepanagos/

In this podcast episode, Dr. Brian interviews Dr. David Perlmutter about his new book, "Drop Acid," which focuses on uric acid and how it relates to metabolic health, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and other health issues. The two discuss the importance of understanding the role of uric acid in the body and how it can be managed through diet and lifestyle changes to support overall health. As a neurologist, Dr. Perlmutter became interested in uric acid's impact on the brain and explored this topic in his book.

Elevated Uric Acid Can Cause Disease

Elevated uric acid levels in the body can cause several diseases and conditions. Uric acid is a naturally-occurring substance in the body, but when it is present at higher-than-normal levels, it can cause many health problems. Uric acid is most commonly associated with gout, a type of arthritis, but it can also be linked to other conditions such as metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes.

Uric acid is produced when the body breaks down purines, which are found in certain foods such as organ meats, sardines, anchovies, and mushrooms. When the body cannot properly process and excrete the excess uric acid, it can build up in the bloodstream and cause problems.

Limit Added Sugar Consumption

In today’s modern world, limiting added sugar consumption is more important than ever. Fructose is a type of sugar found naturally in fruits and vegetables and is also added to many processed foods. Fructose is metabolized differently than other sugars and has been linked to higher uric acid levels in the body. Excess fructose intake has been linked to several metabolic issues, including hypertension, cognitive decline, and obesity.

Lower Uric Acid For Better Health

Uric acid is a by-product of fructose metabolism, and elevated uric acid levels can lead to serious health problems. High uric acid levels are associated with an increased risk of death from all-cause mortality, cardiovascular death, and stroke. Additionally, it can increase the risk of erectile dysfunction and lead to the formation of uric acid crystals in the blood vessels and joints. 

Fortunately, there are ways to reduce uric acid levels and improve health. The first step is to identify and avoid hidden sources of fructose. This includes reading labels and being aware of the different names for added sugars, such as organic cane syrup. It is also important to limit alcohol consumption, especially beer, as it is rich in purines which can raise uric acid levels.

Key Takeaways:

[00:00:36] Uric acid and metabolic health.
[00:05:00] Uric acid's causative role.
[00:09:29] The dangers of fructose.
[00:13:05] Uricase mutation and body fat.
[00:17:23] Uric acid and fructose.
[00:23:51] Uric acid and erectile dysfunction.
[00:28:07] Uric acid and blood sugar.
[00:29:58] AMP kinase and uric acid.
[00:34:10] Paleo movement and our ancestors.
[00:38:14] Lowering uric acid levels.
[00:42:14] Neuroinflammation and Alzheimer's.
[00:46:13] Fruit consumption and uric acid.

Resources:

Website: https://www.drperlmutter.com
Drop Acid: https://www.drperlmutter.com/books/drop-acid/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidperlmutter/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/DavidPerlmutterMD
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DavidPerlmutterMd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/davidperlmutter