The Rest Is Money 177. Are Food Giants The New Big Tobacco?
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Jun 1, 2025 
In this discussion, Dr. David Kessler, former FDA commissioner and public health expert, tackles the obesity epidemic and the role of food giants resembling the tobacco industry's past. He delves into how ultra-processed foods create addiction, compares popular weight loss drugs, and emphasizes the ethical responsibilities of food manufacturers. Kessler argues for greater regulation and education to combat obesity, stressing that personal accountability and government action are essential in tackling this pressing health crisis.
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Toxic Visceral Fat Causes Disease
- The obesity epidemic is driven largely by 'sick fat' or toxic visceral fat.
- Ultra-formulated foods with excess calories and rapidly absorbable glucose cause this harmful fat accumulation.
Ultra-Formulated Foods Are Addictive
- Ultra-formulated foods are addictive because they combine fat, sugar, and salt in perfect proportions.
- These foods stimulate the brain's reward circuits much like addictive substances.
Kessler's COVID Weight Gain Story
- David Kessler gained 40 pounds during intense work on COVID vaccine distribution.
- He used ultra-formulated foods to maintain energy and focus, illustrating food addiction personally.
