Docs Who Lift

TakeawaysDirect-to-consumer lab testing is on the rise, with significant marketing efforts behind it.Many patients feel brushed off by traditional healthcare providers, leading them to seek alternative testing options.Communication between patients and healthcare providers is often inadequate, contributing to misunderstandings about health.Over-testing can lead to unnecessary anxiety and misinterpretation of results.Fitness influencers often promote lab testing without proper medical training, which can be harmful.There is a need for ethical practices in lab testing and patient care.Patients should be cautious of companies that upsell supplements based on lab results.The healthcare system often fails to provide adequate time for patient concerns to be addressed.Understanding lab results requires skilled interpretation, which is often lacking in direct-to-consumer models.A collaborative approach among healthcare professionals is necessary to improve patient outcomes.Click to join Dr. Spencer's online clinic if you need help with this  Click here to check out Barbell Medicine

In this episode of the Dr. Lift podcast, hosts Dr. Spencer Nadolsky and Dr. Karl discuss the recent changes in obesity medication coverage, particularly focusing on the CVS Caremark decision to drop ZEPBound from their formulary in favor of Wegovi. They explore the implications of this decision for patients and providers, the role of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in healthcare, and the ongoing advocacy efforts to ensure access to effective obesity treatments. The conversation highlights the complexities of insurance coverage, the need for patient-centered care, and the importance of making medications more affordable.- The recent changes in obesity medication coverage have raised concerns among providers and patients.- CVS Caremark's decision to drop ZEPBound has sparked a petition advocating for better access to medications.- Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) play a significant role in determining medication coverage and costs.- There is a need for more nuanced insurance policies that consider patient needs and clinical severity.- Advocacy efforts are crucial in reversing negative trends in medication coverage.- Patients often face challenges with prior authorization processes when switching medications.- The cost of obesity medications is a significant barrier to access for many patients.- Insurance companies are increasingly dropping coverage for anti-obesity medications, impacting patient care.- The conversation emphasizes the importance of patient-centered care in obesity treatment.- There is a call for making obesity medications more affordable and accessible to patients.https://www.change.org/p/stop-cvs-caremark-s-zepbound-ban-restore-coverage-of-the-superior-obesity-medicationClick to join Dr. Spencer's online clinic if you need help with this 

In this episode of the Dr. Lift podcast, hosts Dr. Spencer Nadolsky and Dr. Karl discuss the Surpass CVOT trial, which evaluates the cardiovascular outcomes of Monjaro compared to Dulaglutide (Trulicity). They delve into the significance of the trial, the implications of the results, and the potential benefits of Monjaro for patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular risks. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding cardiovascular outcome trials and the evolving landscape of diabetes medications.Takeaways: The Surpass CVOT trial compares Mounjaro to Dulaglutide.Dulaglutide has shown cardiovascular benefits in previous trials.The trial results indicate Monjaro is at least not inferior to Dulaglutide.There is a trend towards better cardiovascular outcomes with Mounjaro.Weight loss and glycemic control are significant benefits of Mounjaro.The trial did not include a placebo, but used a putative analysis.The results are reassuring for patients at high cardiovascular risk.The conversation emphasizes the importance of comprehensive treatment for metabolic diseases.The hosts express enthusiasm for the potential of Mounjaro.Future discussions will delve deeper into the trial's findings.      

Sean Wharton, a physician and clinical trialist renowned for his work on obesity and the STEP-UP trial, shares fascinating insights on the advancements in weight loss treatments. He discusses the significance of the higher 7.2mg dose of semaglutide, trial design intricacies, and the promising future of dual and triple therapies. The conversation highlights the barriers to healthcare access, the role of intermittent fasting in weight management, and the importance of nutrition science, particularly in addressing biases that affect dietary guidelines.

Dr. Yao, a researcher in preventive cardiology, and Dr. Blaha, from Johns Hopkins, explore the complexities of obesity classification. They discuss the discrepancies between clinical and anthropometric definitions, emphasizing waist measurements over traditional BMI. The conversation highlights the prevalence of preclinical obesity in normal-weight individuals, the challenge of metabolically healthy obesity, and the need for nuanced definitions in obesity-related research. Real-world data from programs like All of Us are portrayed as vital for future studies.

Join Dr. Brueger, an ophthalmologist and retina specialist, as he dives into age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and its potential links to GLP-1 medications. Discover the types and causes of AMD, including key risk factors like genetics and lifestyle. The fascinating conversation also explores how diabetes and its treatments relate to eye health. Dr. Brueger clarifies misconceptions about vision loss from macular degeneration, making it both informative and engaging.

Beverly Tchang, an associate professor at Cornell and an obesity specialist, dives into the complexities of menopausal hormonal therapy and its impact on weight management. She emphasizes that not all women should receive hormone therapy and warns against oversimplifications in the wellness industry. The discussion highlights the intricate relationship between hormonal changes and weight, the importance of personalized treatments, and the challenge of navigating various treatment options. Tchang calls for better education, awareness, and future clinical trials to advance women's health.

Dr. Grant Tinsley joins the discussion as the body composition expert.Myostatin is a key regulator of muscle growth.Wendy Whippete the most jacked muscled up dogThe concern of GLP-1 receptor agonists and muscle mass loss.Overview of Courage trial looking at semaglutide and trevogrumab and lean mass lossUpcoming Believe trial coming out (bimagrumab and semaglutide)Exercise remains crucial for muscle health and function.MRI data from SURPASS MRI provides new insights into muscle volume changes.The combination of medications may have varying effects on muscle mass.Caution is advised regarding the long-term effects of new drugs.Clinical benefits of medications often outweigh concerns about muscle loss.Future research will explore the synergy between exercise and medication.Other docs who lift podcasts with Dr. Grant:Tirzepatide muscle lossLean mass loss and GLP-1 meds

Kevin Klatt, a nutrition PhD and insightful commentator on dietary guidelines, discusses the pressing issues of nutrition research. He criticizes the MAHA report for lacking actionable policies despite addressing public health concerns. Klatt emphasizes the historical context of nutrition guidelines and the inadequacy of current funding for research. He argues that misinformation and political agendas undermine public trust, calling for more rigorous science to inform policy. Ultimately, he advocates for a shift towards policies prioritizing genuine health outcomes over superficial changes.

Tiffany Moon is an anesthesiologist, associate professor, and former star of The Real Housewives of Dallas, who brings her unique perspective on finding joy and purpose in life. She discusses her journey from reality TV to embracing a life centered around genuine connections. Tiffany emphasizes the importance of work-life integration and how to break free from perfectionism. She also shares insights from the Lead Her Summit, aimed at empowering women, and highlights the significance of gratitude in sustaining happiness and fulfillment.