In today's episode of The Metabolic Classroom, Dr. Ben Bikman delves into the fascinating topic of GLP-1, a hormone of significant interest in metabolic research. Dr. Bikman sets the stage by expanding the discussion beyond GLP-1 to include other incretions, defining them as a class of hormones produced by the small intestine. These hormones play crucial roles in nutrient metabolism, satiety, and hunger regulation.The discovery of incretions stemmed from observations following gastric bypass surgeries, where elevated levels of these hormones were found in the bloodstream, leading to improvements in diabetes. Dr. Bikman highlights GLP-1's well-known effect on insulin secretion and glucagon suppression, which contribute to its ability to rapidly correct high glucose levels and improve diabetes. However, he notes the ongoing debate regarding GLP-1's direct insulin secretagogue effect in humans, contrasting findings from cell culture and animal models with recent human studies.Moving beyond GLP-1, Dr. Bikman discusses other incretions like GIP, PYY, and cholecystokinin, outlining their roles in glucose regulation, appetite control, and digestion. He explores the pharmacological applications of GLP-1 agonists in managing diabetes and obesity, detailing various drugs and their mechanisms of action. Furthermore, he touches upon natural methods to enhance GLP-1 secretion, including dietary factors like protein, fat, and sugars. The session concludes with insights into the live Q&A session, emphasizing the dynamic interaction between science and audience participation in The Metabolic Classroom.Learn more at: https://www.insuliniq.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beginning with a discussion on the evolution of these medications, Dr. Bikman emphasizes their significance in combating obesity-related health issues. He proceeds to analyze the mechanisms of popular weight loss drugs, such as Orlistat, Phentermine, and the combination of Phentermine with Topiramate, elucidating how each functions to aid weight loss.While highlighting the benefits, Dr. Bikman doesn’t shy away from detailing the potential side effects, ensuring a comprehensive understanding for the audience. Moreover, he shares an intriguing scientific fact regarding lactate’s role in fat metabolism, adding depth to the discussion. Throughout, Dr. Bikman maintains a balance between scientific evidence and personal insight, fostering an engaging and informative session.In discussing liraglutide’s mechanism of action, Dr. Bikman reveals its role as a GLP-1 receptor agonist, mimicking the actions of the incretin GLP-1. He then previews next week’s class dedicated to incretins and their use in weight loss drugs, including medications like wegovy and ozempic.Liraglutide primarily promotes weight loss by reducing gastric emptying, leading to prolonged feelings of fullness and decreased appetite. Additionally, it inhibits glucagon, lowering blood glucose levels and subsequently increasing metabolic rate and fat burning. Dr. Bikman notes common side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort and hints at potential risks of thyroid tumors associated with GLP-1 agonists.Ben transitions to discussing semaglutide, another GLP-1 receptor agonist, and its similar effects on weight loss and side effects, including the possibility of ileus. He also touches on metformin’s off-label use for weight loss, its mechanisms involving AMPK activation and ATP inhibition, and its potential interference with exercise-induced mitochondrial benefits.Learn more at: Insulin IQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The podcast delves into measuring and addressing insulin resistance, offering hope through solvable solutions. Dr. Bikman emphasizes the importance of understanding insulin's role beyond glucose regulation. Practical considerations include interpreting fasting insulin levels to assess resistance. The discussion also explores lifestyle changes to lower elevated insulin levels and strategies for enhancing insulin sensitivity and muscle health.

Dr. Bikman explores insulin resistance's impact on chronic diseases, connecting it to obesity and type two diabetes. He discusses the effects on muscle tissue, liver, and alpha cells of the pancreas, highlighting disruptions in glucose metabolism. The link between insulin resistance and health issues like Alzheimer's, hypertension, and infertility is examined, challenging conventional views and emphasizing the importance of addressing insulin resistance for improved health outcomes.

Delve into the origins of insulin resistance, stress hormones impact, primary vs secondary causes, and indirect factors like linoleic acid. Learn about the implications of high sugar diets on glucose response and satiety, along with the challenges of managing stress and inflammation.

The podcast explores the concept of metabolic health and insulin resistance, emphasizing the balance of biochemical processes in the body. It discusses the impact of carbohydrates on fuel sources and the role of insulin in metabolic flexibility. Additionally, it identifies physical signs of insulin resistance, highlighting the importance of proactive health management.

Many people today are wary of discussions about leaky gut because there are so many questionable cures being sold without scientific evidence to support them. Let's talk about exactly what leaky gut is and how it's affected by what we eat.Here are the resources that Ben references during the episode:Source #1 - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18000291/Source #2 - https://aasldpubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/hep.30652Source #3 - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6412740/Source #4 - https://science.sciencemag.org/content/373/6553/eabe6729Source #5 - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27171436/Learn more at Insulin IQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the most persistent oppositions to a low carb diet is the idea that it can damage the kidneys. Let's dive into what the data really shows.Here is the resource that Ben references during the episode:Source #1 - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30383278/Source #2 - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27346534/Learn more at Insulin IQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many people claim that eating low-carb can actually make you insulin resistant. How can this be? The answer lies in the key difference between two types of insulin resistance; pathological versus physiological. Let's discuss what's really happening.Here is the resource that Ben references during the episode:Source #1 - https://academic.oup.com/jes/article/5/5/bvab049/6199842?login=trueLearn more at Insulin IQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr. Steven Cowles, an OBGYN specialist, joins Dr. Ben Bikman to discuss how insulin control is crucial for women's reproductive health. They explore the impact of insulin on female fertility, including its connection to PCOS. The conversation also highlights the positive effects of a low-carb diet on reproductive health and stresses the importance of managing insulin levels for overall well-being.