The Metabolic Classroom with Dr. Ben Bikman

This week, Dr. Bikman dives deep into the metabolic role of cortisol, the body’s primary glucocorticoid. He explains that while cortisol is essential for survival—mobilizing energy during fasting or stress—chronically elevated levels can wreak metabolic havoc.Cortisol is produced by the adrenal cortex under direction from the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Its main role is to ensure energy availability, stimulating glycogen breakdown, muscle catabolism, and fat breakdown in specific depots. However, long-term cortisol elevation, such as in Cushing’s disease, leads to fat redistribution, muscle loss, insulin resistance, and increased risk of type 2 diabetes.Cortisol’s metabolic effects are driven by its action on glucocorticoid receptors inside cells, activating genes like PEPCK and glucose-6-phosphatase that stimulate gluconeogenesis and increase blood sugar. It also indirectly causes insulin resistance by increasing ceramide accumulation, which interferes with insulin signaling in cells like muscle and fat. This, combined with glucose overproduction and muscle loss (the major glucose sink), creates a perfect metabolic storm: high blood sugar, high insulin, and reduced glucose uptake.The hormone also affects fat storage patterns. Cortisol enhances fat accumulation in visceral (abdominal) fat while stimulating fat loss in subcutaneous regions like the limbs. It increases fat uptake by upregulating lipoprotein lipase and blocks fat breakdown by suppressing hormone-sensitive lipase, especially in the abdominal region. Yet cortisol alone isn’t enough to cause fat gain—insulin is still required. Ben illustrates this by showing how individuals with untreated type 1 diabetes have high cortisol and high appetite but still lose fat without insulin.Lastly, cortisol influences the brain’s hunger and reward systems, increasing carbohydrate cravings through neuropeptide Y and dopamine signaling. Chronic stress or medical conditions that elevate cortisol can drive overeating and central obesity. In short, while cortisol is necessary, its chronic elevation leads to insulin resistance, fat redistribution, and loss of metabolic control.Show Notes/References:For complete show notes and references, we invite you to become a Ben Bikman Insider subscriber. As a subscriber, you’ll enjoy real-time, livestream Metabolic Classroom access which includes live Q&A after the lecture with Ben, ad-free podcast episodes, show notes and references, Ben’s Research Reviews Podcast, and a searchable archive that includes all Metabolic Classroom episodes and Research Reviews. Learn more: https://www.benbikman.com#Cortisol #InsulinResistance #ChronicStress #GlucoseControl #MetabolicHealth #CushingsDisease #HormonalBalance #FatStorage #Ceramides #DrBenBikman #VisceralFat #FatLoss #SubcutaneousFat #BloodSugar #AppetiteRegulation #Type2Diabetes #Mitochondria #HPAaxis #CortisolAndCravings #FatDistribution 📢 Learn more about becoming an Insider on Ben’s website: https://www.benbikman.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the two distinct paths of insulin resistance: the fast and the slow. Fast insulin resistance can strike quickly due to high carbohydrate intake, stress, and inflammation, but can often be reversed swiftly. In contrast, slow insulin resistance develops gradually and stems from long-term lifestyle habits, leading to larger fat cells that further disrupt insulin signaling. The role of inflammation and ceramides in these processes is critical, emphasizing the need for effective lifestyle adjustments to combat metabolic dysfunction.

Discover the fascinating world of cold therapy and its impact on metabolism. Learn how cold exposure activates brown adipose tissue, helping to burn calories and transform white fat into metabolically active beige fat. Delve into the benefits of shivering, which promotes glucose uptake and boosts insulin sensitivity. Explore the influence of hormones, like FGF21 and adiponectin, on fat oxidation and mitochondrial health. Plus, compare various cold exposure methods to optimize your wellness journey.

Dr. Ben Bikman dives into the controversial role of seed oils and their primary component, linoleic acid, in insulin resistance. He traces the surge of seed oil use and its alarming correlation with rising insulin resistance rates. Examining the impact of oxidized linoleic acid, he distinguishes between harmful byproducts and the fat itself. While animal studies reveal the dangers of high linoleic acid diets, human research presents a murkier picture with mixed results. The discussion underscores the complexity of dietary fats and their influence on metabolic health.

Dive into the fascinating world of fat metabolism, where Dr. Bikman breaks down saturated, mono, and polyunsaturated fats. Discover how each type affects your body and health, with saturated fats acting as stable energy sources. Learn about the unique properties of short-chain fats found in coconut oil, which bypass traditional fat storage. The discussion also highlights the risks of polyunsaturated fats, particularly from refined seed oils, and the essential role of insulin in managing fat and promoting good health.

Discover the fascinating world of GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Mounjaro, and how they could reshape weight loss strategies. Delve into the complex relationship between gut health and mental wellness, as Dr. Bikman discusses the effects of these drugs on appetite control and carbohydrate cravings. Uncover a four-step plan for smarter usage that emphasizes low doses, resistance training, and dietary adjustments. Learn about the potential risks involved and the importance of a holistic approach to weight management and metabolic health.

Discover the power of GLP-1, a gut hormone that influences appetite and blood sugar regulation, especially in those with obesity. Learn why traditional GLP-1 medications, though effective, may lead to unwanted side effects like muscle loss and mood issues. Uncover natural ways to boost GLP-1 through Yerba Mate and allulose, which can curb sweet cravings and promote healthy eating habits. Get actionable insights on enhancing your metabolic health sustainably, focusing on diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.

Discover the surprising benefits of bilirubin, a molecule traditionally linked to liver issues, now revealed as a powerhouse in metabolism. It not only acts as a potent antioxidant combating oxidative stress, but also reduces inflammation by inhibiting key pathways. Interestingly, those with Gilbert Syndrome have lower cardiovascular risks. Additionally, bilirubin enhances fat metabolism and boosts the function of brown and beige fat, contributing to metabolic health in ways you might never have expected.

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signaling molecules, crucial for metabolism and fat loss. Dr. Bikman discusses how certain peptides like CJC-1295 and Tesamorelin stimulate growth hormone, aiding in fat breakdown while preserving muscle mass. Melanotan-2 is highlighted for its appetite-suppressing effects. Collagen peptides impress by improving insulin sensitivity and gut health. The therapeutic potential of peptides in anti-aging, muscle recovery, and overall health is thoroughly explored, showcasing their rising popularity in wellness.

Explore the surprising link between acne and insulin resistance. Dr. Bikman explains how metabolic factors, particularly insulin's role in increasing oil production, contribute to acne development. He challenges traditional beliefs by highlighting the impact of diet, especially high-carb consumption, on skin health. Learn about innovative treatments like metformin and how low-carbohydrate diets can help improve acne conditions. Discover practical dietary strategies to combat acne effectively.