
The Metabolic Link
Welcome to The Metabolic Link, a medical and science podcast that explores the common thread of metabolism in health and disease. Join Dr. Dominic D'Agostino PhD, Dr. Angela Poff PhD, and Victoria Field as they dive into the latest research on metabolic health and therapy alongside some of the world’s leading experts. They'll also discuss how this science is being applied in the real world. This is where science meets society.
Latest episodes

Apr 23, 2025 • 59min
Journal Club: The Rise of Fatty Liver Disease and its Metabolic Roots | Ep.66
Explore the alarming rise of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now affecting both adults and children. Discover the new terms defining this condition and its alarming connections to obesity. Learn about dietary strategies, including carbohydrate restriction and the benefits of sustainable protein sources. Dive into research linking low-carb diets to improved liver health, and uncover insights from both human and animal studies on the ketogenic diet's complex role. Practical tips await for enhancing your metabolic health!

Apr 11, 2025 • 60min
The Metabolic Impact of GLP-1s on Obesity | Spencer Nadolsky, DO | Ep.65
Join us for a FREE Live Q&A with Dr. Spencer Nadolsky on April 22nd at 9am PT / 12pm ET! Your first seven days are free, and as a member of The Metabolic Initiative, you’ll gain access to exclusive, ad-free episodes, hundreds of expert-led videos on metabolic health and therapy, CME opportunities, and more here!In this episode of The Metabolic Link, Dr. Dominic D’Agostino sits down with Dr. Spencer Nadolsky—board-certified obesity and lipid specialist, former NCAA heavyweight wrestler, and founder of Vineyard—to explore one of the most hotly debated and often misunderstood tools in modern medicine: GLP-1 receptor agonists.Together, they take a deep dive into how these drugs work, who they’re for, and why they might not always be a magic bullet. Dr. Nadolsky shares clinical insights into the real-world use of semaglutide, tirzepatide, and combination therapies, breaking down everything from appetite regulation and side effects to muscle loss, mood changes, and the potential future of prevention.They also tackle pediatric obesity, long-term use vs. off-ramping, and the critical role of resistance training and nutrition for protecting muscle mass while on these medications.Special thanks to the sponsors of this episode:✅ Genova Connect – Get 15% off any test kit with code METABOLICLINK here✅ Fatty15 – Get 15% off a 90-day Starter Kit here (use code METABOLICLINK)✅ Zocdoc – Find and instantly book a top-rated doctor here✅ Puori – Get 20% off supplements with code METABOLICLINK here🧠 Learn more about Dr. Nadolsky → drspencer.com💥 Don’t forget to RSVP for the live Q&A on April 22!🎟️ membership.metabolicinitiative.com/drspencerIn every episode of The Metabolic Link, we'll uncover the very latest research on metabolic health and therapy. If you like this episode, please share it, subscribe, follow, and leave us a comment or review on whichever platform you use to tune in!You can find us on all your major podcast players here and full episodes are also up on our Metabolic Health Summit YouTube channel!Find us on social: Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Please keep in mind: The Metabolic Link does not provide medical or health advice, but rather general information that does not serve as a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional. Never delay in seeking medical advice from an appropriately licensed medical provider for any health condition that you may have.

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Mar 25, 2025 • 1h 7min
Reversing Heart Disease Through Metabolic Health | Philip Ovadia, MD | Ep.64
Dr. Philip Ovadia, a renowned cardiac surgeon and founder of Ovadia Heart Health, dives into the crucial link between metabolic health and heart disease prevention. He challenges the traditional focus on cholesterol, advocating for a greater emphasis on insulin resistance and inflammation. Ovadia emphasizes the power of lifestyle changes and advanced testing, like Coronary Artery Calcium Score scans, to proactively manage heart health. His journey from obesity to wellness fuels a passionate call for a holistic approach, reshaping our understanding of heart disease.

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Mar 11, 2025 • 1h 5min
The Mitochondrial Link to Mental Illness | Ana Andreazza, PhD | The Metabolic Link Ep.63
Dr. Ana Andreazza, a Professor at the University of Toronto and an expert in mitochondrial function, discusses the revolutionary connections between mitochondria and mental health. She highlights her pioneering research on mitochondrial dysfunction in psychiatric disorders, particularly bipolar disorder. Delving into innovative models like 3D brain organoids, she reveals how mitochondrial health impacts mood and metabolism. The conversation also covers potential treatments, including mitochondrial transplantation and the role of substances like metformin and C15 fatty acids.

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Feb 27, 2025 • 37min
Optimizing Metabolic Health | MHS Panel Discussion | The Metabolic Link Ep. 62
In this engaging discussion, Amanda Decker, a nurse practitioner specializing in weight management, and Ben Bikman, an expert on GLP-1 therapy, delve into optimizing metabolic health. They explore the long-term effects of GLP-1 medications on fat and muscle, challenging traditional views on dieting and metabolism. The conversation also addresses the impact of diet and exercise on nerve function and lipid profiles. Listeners will gain insights into the myths surrounding high-protein diets and the crucial role of the microbiome in weight management.

Feb 11, 2025 • 1h 32min
Targeting Cancer Metabolism: The Future of Oncology | Dr. Tomás Duraj | The Metabolic Link Ep. 61
What if we could target cancer at its metabolic core? In this episode of The Metabolic Link, Dr. Dominic D’Agostino is joined by Dr. Tomás Duraj, a physician and cancer metabolism researcher working alongside Dr. Thomas Seyfried.Dr. Duraj is the lead author of a groundbreaking review on ketogenic metabolic therapy for glioblastoma, bringing together leading experts to explore how metabolic strategies could reshape cancer treatment.In this deep-dive conversation, they discuss the bioenergetics of cancer, the role of mitochondria, the Warburg effect, and why targeting glucose and glutamine metabolism may be the key to making standard cancer therapies more effective.Whether you’re a researcher, clinician, or someone interested in the latest advancements in cancer therapy, this episode is packed with insights that could redefine the way we think about cancer treatment. Watch the full episode here or listen on your favorite podcast player for this must-hear discussion on the future of metabolic therapy for cancer!Read Dr. Duraj's paper: Clinical research framework proposal for ketogenic metabolic therapy in glioblastomaAbout Dr. Tomás DurajDr. Tomás Duraj is a Czech physician-scientist, receiving his Medical Degree from the Rey Juan Carlos University and his PhD in Translational Medicine from the CEU San Pablo University (Madrid, Spain). His research focuses on studying the potential of bioenergetic modulation in cancer metabolism, with special emphasis on glioblastoma, the most aggressive and lethal primary brain tumor. After developing cancer research at the team of Dr. Ayuso Sacido, he joined Dr. Thomas N. Seyfried’s laboratory in Boston College. His goal is to advance our understanding of metabolic oncology on a rigorous, evidence-based background, making it part of the standard oncology toolkit.Special thanks to the sponsors of this episode:Puori: Get 20% off Puori supplements at https://puori.com/METABOLICLINK and use the code METABOLICLINKFatty15: Get an additional 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit by going to https://fatty15.com/METABOLICLINK and use code METABOLICLINK.MUDWTR: Get up to 43% off with code METABOLICLINK at https://mudwtr.com/METABOLICLINKIn every episode of The Metabolic Link, we'll uncover the very latest research on metabolic health and therapy. If you like this episode, please share it, subscribe, follow, and leave us a comment or review on whichever platform you use to tune in!You can find us on all your major podcast players here and full episodes are also up on our Metabolic Health Summit YouTube channel!Find us on social: Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Please keep in mind: The Metabolic Link does not provide medical or health advice, but rather general information that does not serve as a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional. Never delay in seeking medical advice from an appropriately licensed medical provider for any health condition that you may have.

Jan 29, 2025 • 1h 7min
A Ketogenic Approach to Type 1 Diabetes | Dr. Ian Lake | The Metabolic Link Ep.60
Become a member of The Metabolic Initiative to access exclusive ad-free episodes, 100s of videos on metabolic health, and earn CMEs: https://membership.metabolicinitiative.com Can a ketogenic diet revolutionize the management of type 1 diabetes? In this episode of The Metabolic Link, Dr. Ian Lake, a UK-based physician and type 1 diabetes advocate, shares his personal and professional journey in using low-carb and ketogenic diets to improve metabolic control.Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 36, Dr. Lake initially followed conventional high-carb recommendations—until he discovered the power of nutritional ketosis. He breaks down how reducing insulin volumes, optimizing glucose levels, and becoming fat-adapted transformed his health and life.From running 700 miles while following a ketogenic diet to leading type 1 diabetes retreats, Dr. Lake shares actionable insights on metabolic flexibility, insulin sensitivity, and the real-world implications of a ketogenic approach.Special thanks to the sponsors of this episode:Puori: Get 20% off Puori supplements! If you choose their already discounted subscription, that's almost a third off the price! Visit https://puori.com/METABOLICLINK and use the code METABOLICLINKMaui Nui Venison: Gain access to a limited collection of Dom’s favorite Maui Nui products at https://mauinuivenison.com/METABOLICLINKZocdoc: Visit https://Zocdoc.com/METABOLICLINK to find and instantly book a top-rated doctorIn every episode of The Metabolic Link, we'll uncover the very latest research on metabolic health and therapy. If you like this episode, please share it, subscribe, follow, and leave us a comment or review on whichever platform you use to tune in!You can find us on all your major podcast players here and full episodes are also up on our Metabolic Health Summit YouTube channel!Find us on social: Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Please keep in mind: The Metabolic Link does not provide medical or health advice, but rather general information that does not serve as a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional. Never delay in seeking medical advice from an appropriately licensed medical provider for any health condition that you may have.

Jan 14, 2025 • 42min
Chad Vanags | Patient Perspective: Why I Don’t Trust You & How We Can Fix It | The Metabolic Link Ep.59
Become a member of The Metabolic Initiative to access exclusive ad-free episodes, watch 100s of videos on metabolic health, and earn CMEs here.In this powerful and unfiltered episode of The Metabolic Link, we're sharing a full presentation by Chad Vanags, a former SaaS executive and entrepreneur who has turned his stage 4 lung cancer diagnosis into a mission to reshape the way we think about healing. Recorded live at Metabolic Health Summit in January of 2024, Chad shares his journey of becoming metabolically, physically, and mentally elite in the fight against cancer.Through his deeply personal story, Chad provides a rare and essential patient perspective, shedding light on the gaps in traditional cancer care—from nutrition and communication to the importance of mindset and metabolic health. His insights challenge clinicians, researchers, and patients alike to rethink the medical status quo, spark innovation, and inspire transformative conversations.This episode is more than just a story of resilience—it’s a call to action to integrate patient voices into the heart of healthcare and foster a collaborative approach to healing.Listen to this episode or watch on YouTube to explore Chad’s journey, the lessons he’s learned, and his hope for the future of patient-centered care.Special thanks to the sponsors of this episode:Fatty15: Get 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit with the code METABOLICLINK at fatty15.com/METABOLICLINKMUD/WTR: Start your new morning ritual & get up to 43% off your MUDWTR with code METABOLICLINK at mudwtr.com/METABOLICLINKIn every episode of The Metabolic Link, we'll uncover the very latest research on metabolic health and therapy. If you like this episode, please share it, subscribe, follow, and leave us a comment or review on whichever platform you use to tune in!You can find us on all your major podcast players here and full episodes are also up on our Metabolic Health Summit YouTube channel!Find us on social: Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Please keep in mind: The Metabolic Link does not provide medical or health advice, but rather general information that does not serve as a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional. Never delay in seeking medical advice from an appropriately licensed medical provider for any health condition that you may have.

Dec 31, 2024 • 1h 11min
Journal Club: The Ketogenic Diet Reshapes Cancer Metabolism & the Gut Microbiome | Ep.58
Become a member of The Metabolic Initiative to access exclusive ad-free episodes and earn CMEs here. In this journal club episode, host Victoria Field is joined by Dr. Angela Poff and Dr. Dominic D’Agostino to dive into two groundbreaking studies shaping our understanding of metabolism and its role in health and disease. The team explores the nuances of a recent randomized controlled trial on ketogenic diets, free sugar restriction, and their effects on glucose tolerance, lipid metabolism, and the gut microbiome. Then, they tackle a cutting-edge study uncovering the molecular mechanisms of ketogenic diets in reshaping cancer metabolism through lysine beta-hydroxybutylaration.From the clinical implications of these findings to the potential of ketone supplementation, this episode is packed with insights for researchers, clinicians, and health enthusiasts. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn how these discoveries could shape the future of precision medicine.🔍 Study 1: Ketogenic diet but not free-sugar restriction alters glucose tolerance, lipid metabolism, peripheral tissue phenotype, and gut microbiome: RCT🔍 Study 2: Ketogenic diet reshapes cancer metabolism through lysine β-hydroxybutyrylationReferenced study related to cardiometabolic health - Carbohydrate Restriction-Induced Elevations in LDL-Cholesterol and Atherosclerosis: The KETO TrialSpecial thanks to the sponsors of this episode: Genova Connect: Receive 15% off any of their tests with code metaboliclink hereFatty15: Get 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit with the code METABOLICLINK hereMaui Nui: Get 15% off your first order of Maui Nui with the code METABOLICLINK by visiting this linkIn every episode of The Metabolic Link, we'll uncover the very latest research on metabolic health and therapy. If you like this episode, please share it, subscribe, follow, and leave us a comment or review on whichever platform you use to tune in!You can find us on all your major podcast players here and full episodes are also up on our Metabolic Health Summit YouTube channel!Find us on social: Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Please keep in mind: The Metabolic Link does not provide medical or health advice, but rather general information that does not serve as a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional. Never delay in seeking medical advice from an appropriately licensed medical provider for any health condition that you may have.

Dec 16, 2024 • 1h 3min
Thriving Beyond Schizophrenia: A Story of Healing with Metabolic Therapy | Lauren Kennedy West | Ep.57
Join our free Live Q&A with Lauren on December 18th and become a member of The Metabolic Initiative to access exclusive ad-free episodes and earn CMEs. Register here!In this episode of The Metabolic Link, host Victoria Field sits down with Lauren Kennedy West, a passionate mental health advocate and social worker who was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder in 2016. Lauren reveals her extraordinary journey of using metabolic therapy to not only manage but reverse debilitating symptoms, transforming her life in ways she once thought impossible.This deeply compelling conversation delves into Lauren’s personal story, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the challenges of balancing medications with metabolic therapy. Lauren also shares her mission to bring metabolic therapy to the forefront of mental health treatment, redefining possibilities in the field of metabolic psychiatry.Lauren’s bravery and advocacy are sparking new conversations about recovery and shining a light on the untapped potential of metabolic approaches to mental health. Don’t miss this inspiring episode—and be sure to join Lauren for a Live Q&A on December 18th through The Metabolic Initiative platform. Learn more here!Special thanks to the sponsor of this episode: Genova Connect: Gain access to advanced lab tests in the comfort of your own home. Receive 15% off any test with code metaboliclink by clicking here.AG1: New subscribers get a FREE $76 gift when you sign up. You’ll get a Welcome Kit, a bottle of D3K2 AND 5 free travel packs in your first box. Visit this link.Ned: Get 15% off Ned products with code METABOLICLINK by visiting this link.In every episode of The Metabolic Link, we'll uncover the very latest research on metabolic health and therapy. If you like this episode, please share it, subscribe, follow, and leave us a comment or review on whichever platform you use to tune in!You can find us on all your major podcast players here and full episodes are also up on our Metabolic Health Summit YouTube channel!Find us on social: Instagram Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Please keep in mind: The Metabolic Link does not provide medical or health advice, but rather general information that does not serve as a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional. Never delay in seeking medical advice from an appropriately licensed medical provider for any health condition that you may have.
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