Overview
We’re up against an epidemic of chronic metabolic diseases, ranging from type 2 diabetes and obesity to cancer, dementia, and so much more. One thing they all have in common is a component of insulin dysregulation. Take that into account with the fact that 90% of people who have insulin resistance are going to the doctor and remaining undiagnosed. Why then, are we testing everything but insulin?
Today on The Doctor’s Farmacy, I take a deep dive into the topic of insulin resistance and metabolic health with Dr. Ben Bikman. Ben and I look at the history behind glucose and insulin testing and the reason the latter is so underused. It shouldn’t be, though, and in my experience, testing insulin has been vital in helping patients with major health breakdowns who have otherwise normal metabolic blood markers.
Through his research, Ben has gained an incredible understanding of insulin’s biological impacts throughout the entire body. It’s so much more than blood sugar imbalances and diabetes. Ben explains his definition of insulin resistance, how insulin interacts with the liver, and how high insulin levels contribute to sex hormone imbalances in both men and women.
Everyone always wants to know what ratios of macronutrients to eat, especially when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight. Ben explains the results of a recent study that found moderate to low-carb diets (with the lowest being 20% carbs) increased the metabolic activity of fat cells by two to three times. That means you don’t even have to be in ketosis to gain metabolic benefits when you consciously consume carbohydrates.
We also discuss the topic of mTOR (a regulator of aging), insulin’s role in this pathway, and the question of veganism versus eating animal protein for health and longevity. Ben and I talk about signs of insulin resistance to look for, and he shares plenty of realistic advice that everyone can use to get their insulin in check, right away, without extreme diets and workouts.
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