
The Metabolic Classroom with Dr. Ben Bikman
Welcome to The Metabolic Classroom, a nutrition and lifestyle podcast focused on metabolism, which is how our bodies use energy, and the truth behind why we get sick and fat. Every week, Dr. Ben Bikman shares valuable insights that you can apply in your own life and share with friends and loved ones. The Metabolic Classroom is brought to you by BenBikman.com and InsulinIQ.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

Aug 13, 2021 • 52min
Leaky Gut and Nutrition
Discover the ins and outs of leaky gut and its surprising links to nutrition. Uncover how foods can affect gut integrity and the role of lipopolysaccharides in fueling inflammation. Dive into the dietary dynamics of cholesterol and gut permeability, highlighting the impact of fructose and dietary fats. Learn about the hidden dangers of plant-derived toxins and the unconventional benefits of a carnivore diet. This engaging discussion serves up vital insights on how to eat mindfully for better gut health!

Aug 13, 2021 • 47min
Low Carb Eating and Kidney Health
The podcast tackles the controversial belief that low-carb diets can harm kidney health. It highlights how metabolic processes, like protein metabolism and glomerular filtration rate (GFR), are essential for understanding kidney function. Listeners learn that high protein intake may enhance kidney performance in healthy individuals. The discussion delves into the relationship between diabetes and chronic kidney disease, emphasizing personalized dietary changes. Throughout, myths are debunked while exploring how proper nutrition can support kidney health.

Jul 16, 2021 • 51min
Can a Low-Carb Diet Cause Insulin Resistance?
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.

Jul 2, 2021 • 54min
Insulin Resistance & Women’s Reproductive Health
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.

19 snips
Jul 2, 2021 • 54min
Caffeine, Insulin & Metabolism
Here are the resources that Ben references during the episode:Study #1 - https://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/25/2/364.shortLearn more at Insulin IQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

4 snips
Jun 18, 2021 • 40min
The "Healthy" Whole Grain Question
Dr. Bikman discusses the myth of 'healthy' whole grains, citing studies on their negative impacts. Topics include the benefits of low carb high-fat diets, the effects of phytic acids and gliadin in grains, and the authenticity of sourdough bread. The podcast also explores the impact of fermentation on health, challenges of dietary shifts, and the importance of avoiding substitutes for genuine nutritional benefits.

Jun 11, 2021 • 30min
Diving Into Diabetes Drugs
Some of the most common diabetes drugs work in interesting ways. Let’s talk about some of the most common: SGLT inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists.Here are the resources that Ben references during the episode:Study #1 - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24917578/Study #2 - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30240793/Study #3 - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32827151/Learn more at Insulin IQ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jun 4, 2021 • 58min
The Truth About Cholesterol
Dr. Bret Scher, a board-certified cardiologist and lipidologist, joins the conversation to unravel the misconceptions about cholesterol. He clarifies the distinctions between 'good' and 'bad' cholesterol, urging listeners to rethink traditional metrics and lifestyle choices. The discussion highlights the significance of individualized approaches to heart health, the limited impact of dietary cholesterol, and the importance of understanding lipoproteins. Scher also touches on the challenges of integrating lifestyle changes in medicine, emphasizing support systems for effective behavior modification.

May 28, 2021 • 50min
Diving Deep Into Diabetes
Exploring the unique characteristics and connections between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, understanding the role of insulin in diabetes, discussing MODY and low carb diets, insulin pumps and ketogenic diets in pregnancy, insulin levels and A1C measurements for diabetes management, the honeymoon phase in type 1 diabetes, and diet impact on insulin requirements.

May 21, 2021 • 54min
Metformin: The Magic & Misery
Discover the ins and outs of metformin, the go-to diabetes drug, including how it works and its surprising risks. Learn about its dual role in enhancing insulin sensitivity while potentially causing nutrient deficiencies. Delve into the myths surrounding metformin's impact on muscle growth and longevity, and find out why lifestyle changes may be more effective than medication alone. Explore its effects on breastfeeding women and how personal empowerment is key to managing insulin resistance.