Metabolism Myths: Dr William Li Unveiling The Truth about your Metabolism!
Jan 2, 2024
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Dr. William W. Li, a renowned physician, discusses metabolism intricacies, myth-busting in nutrition, brown vs. white fat, and the impact of food choices on health. Insights from his book, 'Eat to Beat Disease,' are shared, emphasizing the importance of strategic nutritional choices for longevity and disease prevention.
Understanding the phases of metabolism throughout life debunks myths about age-related decline and emphasizes the impact of excess body fat on metabolic function.
Balancing a healthy diet rich in polyphenols with regular exercise, like daily walks, is key in activating brown fat and optimizing metabolism for weight loss.
Utilizing technological tools like continuous glucose monitors and breathalyzers can provide valuable insights into metabolism, aiding individuals in making informed choices for improved overall well-being.
Deep dives
Understanding Metabolism: The Four Phases
Human metabolism goes through four phases. Phase one, from birth to one year old, where metabolism is at its highest. Phase two, from one to 20 years old, where metabolism decreases as the body grows. Phase three, from 20 to 60 years old, where metabolism stabilizes and remains constant. Phase four, from 60 to 90 years old, where metabolism decreases slightly. These phases dispel the common myths that metabolism declines with age and that a slow metabolism leads to weight gain. Additionally, excess body fat smothers metabolism, while lean muscle mass and good gut health can optimize metabolic functioning.
Food and Exercise: Dual Importance in Weight Loss
Both food and exercise play crucial roles in weight loss. Food serves as the fuel for our body, and consuming the right foods, such as those rich in polyphenols like pears, can activate brown fat and burn harmful excess body fat. Regular exercise, even a 20 to 30-minute daily walk, helps increase metabolism and burn more fuel. Striking a balance between a healthy diet and regular exercise is essential for achieving weight loss goals.
Using Technology to Understand Metabolism
Technological advancements, such as continuous glucose monitors and breathalyzers like Lumen, can provide insights into our metabolism. These devices offer real-time measurements that help us understand how our bodies process fuel and respond to certain foods. While the data provided by these devices can be helpful, it is important to note that interpretation and action based on these numbers is not yet fully developed. However, technology can assist individuals in becoming more aware of their metabolic health and guide them towards making informed choices for improved overall well-being.
White fat vs. brown fat
White fat and brown fat are two distinct types of fat in our bodies. White fat, which is subcutaneous and visible, is a primary fuel source and can accumulate around different body parts. However, excess white fat, especially visceral fat, which surrounds organs, can be dangerous and lead to inflammation and health issues. On the other hand, brown fat is located close to bones and helps burn down excess white fat. It can be activated by exposure to cold temperatures or certain foods, such as garlic, tomatoes, strawberries, and purple potatoes.
Intermittent fasting and practical tips
Intermittent fasting is a natural approach to food intake, as our bodies naturally fast during sleep. Implementing a fasting period, such as 12-16 hours, can activate fat burning and improve metabolism. Practically, one can skip late-night snacking and postpone breakfast for an hour or more. This allows for a longer fasting period and increased fat burning time. Additionally, mindful eating and not overeating during busy periods, like holidays, can further contribute to maintaining a healthy metabolism and weight.
Welcome! To kick off the New Year we are joined by Dr. William W. Li, an internationally renowned physician, scientist, and bestselling author of "Eat to Beat Disease: The New Science of How Your Body Can Heal Itself." With over 30 groundbreaking medical treatments impacting 70+ diseases, Dr. Li is a leading expert in the transformative power of nutrition.
Main Topics Covered:
Metabolism Matters: Dr. Li delves into the intricacies of metabolism, unravelling its role in our overall health and how optimal nutrition can boost metabolic function.
Myth Busting in Nutrition: Explore common misconceptions in the world of nutrition as Dr. Li separates fact from fiction, providing evidence-based insights into healthy eating.
Brown Fat vs. White Fat: Gain a deeper understanding of the crucial distinction between brown and white fat, and how our food choices can impact their presence and function in the body.
The Importance of Food Choices: Dr. Li emphasises the profound impact of our dietary decisions on health, longevity, and disease prevention, offering practical tips for mindful eating.
Insights from "Eat to Beat Your Diet": Discover key takeaways from Dr. Li's latest New York Times bestseller, "Eat to Beat Your Diet," released in March 2023, focusing on burning fat, healing metabolism, and living longer through strategic nutritional choices.
Dr. William W. Li, President and Medical Director of the Angiogenesis Foundation, is a trailblazer in medical research. His TED Talk, "Can We Eat to Starve Cancer?" has amassed over 11 million views. Featured on major platforms and in publications like USA Today and Time Magazine, Dr. Li's work has transformed care for diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Join us for an engaging exploration of metabolism, myth-busting, and the pivotal role of food!
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