Fat Science

Avsnitt

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  How Wildfire Smoke Affects Metabolism 17.08.2026 38min

  Is wildfire smoke affecting more than just your lungs?Poor air quality affects not only respiratory health but also metabolic functions. Wildfire smoke can trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormone release, leading to metabolic disturbances.KEY TAKEAWAYSWildfire smoke can impact metabolism, leading to insulin resistance.Stress hormones released during smoke exposure can raise blood sugar levels.Air pollution is linked to increased risk of metabolic syndrome components. NOTABLE QUOTE"When there were wildfire events, within days, the admissions for diabetes increased." — Dr. Emily Cooper Links & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Inside the GLP-1 Secret Shopper Study 10.08.2026 49min

  Is it really a good idea to get medical care from online pharmacies posing as clinics?This week on Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Mark Wright, and Andrea Taylor dig into a Yale secret shopper study that tested 49 websites selling GLP-1 medications online. The websites look and market like medical clinics, but the study found that most patients never spoke to a clinician at all before getting a prescription. Dr. Cooper, Mark, and Andrea unpack what real medical care requires, why these platforms skip it, and what that means for anyone considering this route.KEY TAKEAWAYTwo-thirds of the sites in the study issued a prescription with no clinician contact of any kind — despite marketing themselves as medical clinics.Fewer than 40% asked for any clinical measurement (blood pressure, labs, etc.), and only 18% asked whether the patient even had a primary care doctor.Many of these sites are financially connected to compounding pharmacies and use leading questions to push add-ons that create untested drug combinations.Real medical care means a full history, objective labs, and ongoing monitoring — not a five-minute questionnaire and an automatic credit card charge.NOTABLE QUOTE"The marketing appears to be a medical clinic or a medical company, when in fact it's really just a sale of a drug." Dr. Emily CooperLINKS & RESOURCESStudy published in JAMA on the secret shopper findingsLinks & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  The Truth About Exercise and Metabolism 03.08.2026 46min

  Does exercise really boost metabolism, or is there a hidden truth?In this episode, Dr. Emily Cooper uncovers the science behind why exercise isn’t just about burning calories. Dive into the fascinating world of myokines, the chemical messengers released by muscles that impact everything from mood to inflammation. Discover why it's not your fault if exercise alone isn't solving your metabolic issues.KEY TAKEAWAYSExercise impacts more than calorie burn; it's a signaling system for the body.Myokines, released during exercise, affect organs like the brain and liver.Muscle contractions broadcast vital signals affecting overall health.NOTABLE QUOTE"Exercise is more than burning energy; it's communication throughout the body." — Dr. Emily CooperLINKS & RESOURCESCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesTo register for course: https://learn.diabesityinstitute.org/products/live_events/live-virtual-update-event Links & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Mailbag: Understanding Body Dysmorphia 27.07.2026 40min

  How does biology affect our perception of body size?Dr. Emily Cooper answers listener questions about body dysmorphia and metabolic dysfunction. Mark and Andrea discuss the challenges with compounded medications and the implications of insurance-driven diet requirements.KEY TAKEAWAYSBody dysmorphia can have biological components related to metabolic dysfunction.Compounded medications may lack the testing and safety guarantees of brand names.Insurance requirements often lack a medical basis and can hinder proper treatment.NOTABLE QUOTE"The altered body image perception may be linked to metabolic signals." — Dr. Emily CooperLINKS & RESOURCESNone mentioned.Links & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Understanding Metabolism: Latest Scientific Insights 20.07.2026 50min

  Why is your fat talking to you?In the latest solo episode, Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright explore groundbreaking research into metabolic health. Learn why the scale doesn't always reflect metabolic risk, and discover the science behind fat's active role in the body. KEY TAKEAWAYSMetabolic dysfunction cannot be judged by scale weight alone.Visceral fat is a stronger predictor of heart failure than BMI.Hormonal environments profoundly affect fat storage and health risks.NOTABLE QUOTE"Your fat is talking to you." — Andrea TaylorLINKS & RESOURCESObesity Reviews PaperImmunological Reviews Journal ArticleEuropean Congress on Obesity Study Links & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Why Carbs Are Good For Your Brain 13.07.2026 49min

  Is your brain starving for glucose?In this episode, Dr. Emily Cooper explores the critical role of the brain as a metabolic organ and its dependence on glucose and insulin. Listeners will learn why good sleep and a holistic lifestyle are vital for cognitive health.KEY TAKEAWAYSThe brain uses about 20% of your body's energy at rest.Insulin plays a non-fuel role in brain function, supporting neural connections and mood.Sleep is essential for the brain's waste clearance system, the glymphatic system.Insulin resistance in the brain is linked to cognitive decline and dementia.Exercise, a balanced diet, and social engagement are key to brain health.NOTABLE QUOTE"The brain is the most metabolically active organ in our body." — Dr. Emily CooperLINKS & RESOURCESJAMA: US POINTER Study on Cognitive DeclineNovo Nordisk: EVOKE & EVOKE Plus TrialsLinks & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Mailbag: When Weight Loss Stalls on GLP-1s 06.07.2026 45min

  Is it normal for GLP-1 medications to become less effective over time?Dr. Emily Cooper discusses listener questions about the nuances of metabolic health and the real reasons behind weight fluctuations and food cravings. With insights into GLP-1 medications, mechanical eating, and more, the episode aims to debunk myths and provide science-based encouragement.KEY TAKEAWAYSTrusting your body's hunger signals can prevent metabolic slowdown.Mechanical eating can help manage sugar cravings and maintain metabolic health.Navigating pediatric metabolic issues requires understanding genetic influences and appropriate medical intervention.NOTABLE QUOTE"It's not your fault. Trust your body and step up to the higher end of your metabolic flexibility." — Dr. Emily Cooper LINKS & RESOURCESAmerican Board of Obesity Medicine: obesitymedicine.org Links & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Plastic Chemicals in Your Blood and What Actually Works to Remove Them 29.06.2026 50min

  Have you ever wondered why your body holds onto weight despite your best efforts?In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Cooper reveals groundbreaking research showing that 100% of healthy adults carry at least six different plastic-related chemicals in their bodies daily. These endocrine disruptors don't just affect your hormones - they may be stored in your fat tissue and could be a hidden driver of metabolic dysfunction. The good news? New Australian research proves you can dramatically reduce these chemicals in just one week with targeted changes.KEY TAKEAWAYSEvery single person tested had at least 6 plastic chemicals in their urine, with food packaging being the primary sourceParticipants cut phthalate levels by 38-54% and BPA by 60% in just 7 days with adjustments in reducing plastic exposure in food and food packagingUltra-processed foods introduce plastic chemicals through multiple processing and packaging stepsCertain chemicals like DEHP may be stored in fat tissue and released during weight lossHeat accelerates plastic migration into food - avoid microwaving in plastic and pouring hot food into plastic containersSimple swaps like choosing fresh over canned foods and using glass containers make significant impactsThe EPA research office studying these chemicals was recently eliminated, removing key consumer protectionsNOTABLE QUOTE"People who switched to the low plastic food and kitchenware cut the phthalates excretion by 38 to 54% in one week and they cut their BPA excretion by 60% in one week." — Dr. Emily CooperLinks & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Why Weight Loss Stalls on GLP-1s — Even When You’re Doing Everything “Right 22.06.2026 47min

  What happens when GLP-1 medications stop working the way you hoped they would? In this mailbag episode, Dr. Emily Cooper answers listener questions about fasting, insulin levels, PCOS, lipedema, plateaus on Zepbound, and the complicated reality behind metabolic dysfunction. From the dangers of under-fueling to why individualized treatment matters so much, this conversation unpacks the science behind weight resistance with clarity and compassion.Key TakeawaysWhy fasting and restrictive eating may worsen metabolic adaptationThe real role insulin plays in metabolic healthHow PCOS and lipedema complicate weight loss treatmentWhy some people plateau on GLP-1 medications over timeThe importance of fueling, muscle preservation, and individualized careLinks & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Normal Weight Abnormal Metabolism: Why Your Scale Doesn't Tell the Whole Story 15.06.2026 31min

  Could you have metabolic dysfunction even at a normal weight?This episode challenges everything we've been taught about weight and health. Dr. Cooper reveals that up to 25% of normal-weight people have metabolic syndrome, yet they're rarely screened because doctors assume they're healthy based on appearance alone.KEY TAKEAWAYSWeight and metabolic health are not the same thing - you can be metabolically unhealthy at any sizeNormal weight people with metabolic dysfunction are often overlooked and undertreated by healthcare providersKey screening tests include fasting glucose, insulin, HbA1c, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers like HSCRPMetabolic dysfunction can start in your 20s and take decades to develop into serious diseaseBoth normal weight and higher weight patients face bias - normal weight people aren't screened enough, while higher weight people have everything blamed on their weightEarly screening and treatment can prevent catastrophic health outcomes later in lifeThe liver plays a crucial role in metabolism and can become insulin resistant regardless of body weightNOTABLE QUOTE"You cannot tell anything about someone's health from their outside, what they look like or what, even what they're doing necessarily, but definitely not their body size. So you can be healthy or unhealthy at any size body, and I think that's what's overlooked quite a bit." — Dr. Emily CooperLinks & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comAppendix: Key ReferencesPrimary literature supporting this episode•       Wang et al. Prevalence of Metabolically Unhealthy Normal Weight and Its Influence on the Risk of Diabetes. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2023.•       Review: Beyond BMI — Rethinking Obesity Metrics and Cardiovascular Risk in the Era of Precision Medicine. Journal of Clinical Medicine, December 2025.•       Korean meta-analyses on metabolic dysfunction phenotypes and cardiometabolic risk, Cardiovascular and Metabolic Sciences Journal review, 2024.•       Frontiers in Nutrition, January 2026. Associations of metabolic heterogeneity with the progression of cardiometabolic multimorbidity.•       International Journal of Obesity, September 2025. Cardiovascular risk factors associated with metabolic health phenotypes.Mechanism references•       MASLD — metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease — nomenclature and clinical framework. AASLD/EASL consensus, 2023.•       Insulin signaling, adipose tissue dysfunction, and ectopic fat deposition — reviews on the upstream-downstream relationship.•       Epicardial adipose tissue and cardiovascular dysfunction — Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, January 2026.Fat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Mailbag: Why GLP-1 Medications Sometimes Stop Working 08.06.2026 51min

  Have you been told your metabolism is broken and there's nothing you can do about it?This mailbag episode tackles tough questions about medication effectiveness, unexpected side effects, and the complex realities of treating metabolic dysfunction. Dr. Cooper addresses why some people regain weight while still on GLP-1s, explores the connection between hair loss and weight loss medications, and explains why leptin levels can remain stubbornly low even with proper nutrition.KEY TAKEAWAYSWeight regain while on GLP-1 medications is more common than most people realizeHair loss from weight loss medications is usually related to nutrient deficiencies, not the medication itselfLeptin dysfunction involves both hormone levels and signaling pathways throughout the bodyHypoglycemia after meals often indicates complex metabolic issues that require specialized testingStarting elderly patients on GLP-1s requires careful monitoring of nutrition, blood pressure, and side effectsMechanical eating differs from intuitive eating and remains important even when medications are workingAnnual weight loss rates of 10% or higher indicate medications are still effectiveNOTABLE QUOTE"It is not uncommon to see the weight go up while on these meds, contrary to what people think. They're great, but we always wanna point out some people don't even respond to these." — Dr. Emily CooperLinks & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Why Three Major Obesity Organizations Just Changed What Success Means 01.06.2026 49min

  Ever wonder why you can improve your health but still feel like you're failing because the scale isn't cooperating?Dr. Cooper breaks down groundbreaking new clinical guidelines from three major obesity organizations that are completely reframing what success in obesity treatment actually means. For the first time, these groups are saying quality of life, energy levels, and overall health matter more than the number on the scale.KEY TAKEAWAYSThree major obesity organizations worked collaboratively to issue guidelines prioritizing quality of life over weight loss as primary treatment goalsGuidelines explicitly address medical stigma as a structural barrier to care requiring systemic changeTreatment is positioned as long-term management similar to other chronic conditions like thyroid disordersDocument notably avoids calorie restriction language, focusing instead on healthy lifestyle alongside medicationSetmelanotide receives strong recommendation for rare genetic obesity conditions with available genetic testingStrong medication recommendations now include GLP-1s like semaglutide and tirzepatide, plus bupropion-naltrexone combinationNOTABLE QUOTE"Nobody ever asked. Nobody ever looked. Nobody ever said anything. I was like, 'I think there's something wrong with my metabolism or something because I'm not eating a ton.' They're like, 'Well, you must be.' And I'm like, 'N- n- no, I don't think so. I mean, unless it's happening when I'm sleeping. I don't know.'" — Andrea TaylorReference LinkAlexander L, Purnell JQ, et al. Pharmacological management of obesity in adults: a clinical guidance statement from The Obesity Society, the Obesity Medicine Association, and the Obesity Action Coalition. Obesity. 2026;34(4):851–870. doi:10.1002/oby.70164 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/oby.70164 Links & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  PCOS is Now PMOS: The Name Change That Changes Everything 25.05.2026 39min

  Have you been told you have PCOS but nothing seems to help?In May 2024, after 14 years of global collaboration involving 56 organizations and 22,000 stakeholders, the medical community officially changed PCOS to PMOS - and the reason why reveals everything that's been wrong with how this condition has been understood and treated for decades. Dr. Cooper breaks down why this isn't just a name change, but a complete reframe that puts metabolic dysfunction at the center where it belongs.KEY TAKEAWAYSPCOS is now officially called PMOS - Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome - shifting focus from ovarian problems to metabolic dysfunction70 million women globally are affected during reproductive years, with 70% remaining undiagnosedThe condition can occur at any weight and is driven by insulin resistance and other metabolic signals, not ovarian problemsTreatment should focus on metabolic health rather than weight loss or ovarian interventionsThe name change parallels similar shifts in medicine like MASLD replacing non-alcoholic fatty liver diseaseNOTABLE QUOTE"Most patients with this label that they've had in the past, the PCOS label, feel a sense of hopelessness, and even join support groups and things like that, and thinking that this will be a condition they have forever. And what I try to do is explain, no, this is just a physical manifestation of the metabolic disruption that we treat all the time" — Dr. Emily CooperLinks & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.com Fat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Mailbag - Why Your Doctor Still Believes Calories In Calories Out 18.05.2026 45min

  Have you been told it's just calories in calories out while your lived experience says otherwise?In this mailbag episode, Dr. Cooper addresses complex metabolic questions from listeners worldwide. From eating disorders requiring specialized care to GLP-1 plateau management, each question reveals how individual biology trumps one-size-fits-all solutions.KEY TAKEAWAYSEating disorders like anorexia require comprehensive medical team treatment, not self-management approachesSide effects from GLP-1 medications often improve with consistent eating patterns and adequate nutritionThe calories in calories out model ignores the biological complexity of how your body actually burns fuelPCOS responds well to metabolic treatments because it's driven by underlying insulin and hunger hormone imbalancesSleep deprivation and chronic stress significantly impact GLP-1 effectiveness and overall metabolic functionBioidentical progesterone may help perimenopause sleep issues without the metabolic side effects of older formulationsStroke survivors may experience hypothalamic obesity that responds remarkably well to GLP-1 medicationsNOTABLE QUOTE"If that really worked, imagine, you know, would we actually need these sophisticated medications that are so groundbreaking? Would we have had decades and decades, or actually centuries of failed, you know, diet experiences by so many people?" — Dr. Emily CooperLinks & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  What Lipedema Really Is and Why Your Doctor Might Be Missing It 11.05.2026 48min

  Are your legs painful to touch and resistant to weight loss despite your best efforts?Dr. Ellen Derrick, a vascular surgeon and lipedema specialist, reveals the truth about this misunderstood condition affecting 20% of women worldwide. Lipedema isn't obesity - it's a fat cell disorder where tissue responds abnormally to inflammation, creating painful, swollen areas that don't respond to traditional weight loss methods. She explains the connection between lipedema and venous insufficiency, why patients are often dismissed by doctors, and the emerging treatments offering hope.KEY TAKEAWAYSLipedema affects 20% of the female population but is routinely misdiagnosed as obesityThe condition involves abnormal fat cell response to inflammation, creating painful tissue that resists weight loss86% of lipedema patients also have venous insufficiency, creating a perfect storm of symptomsAnkle cuffs, knee pouches, and saddlebags are classic physical signs that patients often notice from pubertyGLP-1 medications like tirzepatide may help reduce inflammation and tissue tendernessLipedema reduction surgery exists but lacks insurance billing codes, making access challengingA formal medical recognition campaign is underway to establish diagnostic codes by 2026-2027NOTABLE QUOTE"The medical community really has done an outstanding job, in a way, gaslighting these patients. These patients have been aware that something is different about their body and their legs since puberty." — Dr. Ellen DerrickGUEST BIODr. Ellen Derrick is a Seattle-based board-certified vascular and general surgeon with over 20 years of clinical experience and a Master of Public Health from the University of Washington. She founded Boxbar Vascular, specializing in lipedema and related metabolic conditions, and serves on the board of the Lipedema Society working toward formal medical recognition of the condition.Links & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Metabolic Breaking News: 3 Developments You Should Know About 07.05.2026 8min

  Dr. Emily Cooper, Mark Wright, and Andrea Taylor break down three breaking metabolic health stories in this quick bonus episode — from a newly approved oral GLP-1 to a major price drop for Medicare patients.Links & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Mailbag: Mechanical Eating vs Calorie Counting on Ozempic and Wegovy 04.05.2026 44min

  Have you ever wondered if you should get liposuction when you need skin removal surgery after major weight loss?In this mailbag episode, Dr. Cooper, Mark, and Andrea tackle questions from listeners around the world, from Germany to Alabama to Chicago. They discuss why restricting calories while on GLP-1 medications can actually work against you, address the reality of finding metabolic-informed doctors internationally, and explain the science behind fat cell removal during skin surgeries. Plus, they share details about the newly approved oral GLP-1 medication orforglipron (Foundayo) and why vegetables, fats and starches matter even when you're protein-focused.KEY TAKEAWAYSRestricting calories on GLP-1 medications can lower your metabolic rate and weaken your body's natural GLP-1 productionLiposuction during skin removal surgery may disrupt leptin signaling, though males may be less affected than females due to naturally lower leptin levelsFinding metabolic-informed doctors globally remains challenging, but obesity medicine certification and Canadian and European obesity organizations may offer better resourcesThe oral GLP-1 medication orforglipron will likely be less expensive but also less effective than dual-agonist medications like tirzepatideMechanical eating without calorie counting often produces better long-term results than restrictive approachesVegetables provide essential micronutrients and support healthy microbiome function that protein alone cannot replaceMajor weight loss surgery like tummy tucks is serious surgery that requires careful consideration and qualified surgeonsNOTE: This episode was recorded before Foundayo (orforglipron) was released on the market. The price is the same as the Wegovy pill. Listen to our episode - “New Obesity Drugs” for more information https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fat-science/id1715377331?i=1000762362056NOTABLE QUOTE"If only they didn't fall into that diet cycle, some of them, their weight would be a hundred pounds less. Yes, it might be still elevated, but a large chunk of that weight was caused by the diet cycle itself." — Dr. Emily CooperLinks & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Top 10 GLP-1 Myths Debunked by Science 27.04.2026 33min

  Ever hear someone say GLP-1 medications cause osteoporosis or make your hair fall out?This episode tackles the top 10 biggest myths about GLP-1 medications flooding social media and separates the science from the scary headlines. Dr. Cooper breaks down what's actually happening in your body versus what the internet claims, from bone density concerns to the dreaded "Ozempic face."KEY TAKEAWAYS·  GLP-1 medications don't cause osteoporosis - inadequate nutrition while losing weight can weaken bones·  Hair loss is typically from nutritional deficits, not the medication itself·  These drugs slow gastric emptying but don't cause permanent stomach paralysis·  Weight regain after stopping is expected since you're treating a chronic medical condition·  Muscle loss comes from eating too little, not from the medication directly·  The thyroid cancer warning comes from rodent studies and hasn't been observed in humans·  GLP-1s actually protect the pancreas rather than damage itNOTABLE QUOTE"Metabolic dysfunction is biological, it's not something within your means to correct just through lifestyle strategies." — Dr. Emily CooperLinks & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  New Obesity Drugs: What's FDA Approved and What's Coming 20.04.2026 47min

  The obesity medication landscape just changed — again. One brand-new pill is already in pharmacies, and five more are in various stages of approval. But the real story isn't the drugs themselves: it's what they're revealing about how your metabolism actually works, and why willpower was never the problem.This week on Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Mark Wright, and Andrea Taylor break down six metabolic medications — two newly FDA-approved and four in the pipeline — covering everything from a flexible new oral GLP-1 pill to drugs that target the brain's central metabolic pathway directly. Dr. Cooper explains the science behind each one, who might benefit, and what the pipeline tells us about the future of metabolic care. This is the most comprehensive drug update the show has done, and it arrives at a moment when the field is moving faster than ever.Key TakeawaysFoundayo (orforglipron), approved April 1st, is the first small molecule oral GLP-1 — no empty stomach requirement, no cold chain, and potentially lower production costs long-term.The amylin hormone may uniquely address both "I'm nourished" and "I weigh enough" signals in the brain — making the amylin pathway a powerful and underutilized target.Retatrutide (Lilly's triple agonist targeting GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon receptors) is showing unprecedented effectiveness plus significant non-scale benefits, including fatty liver reduction — but is still years from approval.The brain's melanocortin 4 receptor is the CEO of metabolism — regulating energy expenditure, appetite, and insulin — and new drugs targeting it represent the deepest intervention yet.Many of these medications are showing weight-independent benefits, including improvements in kidney, liver, cardiovascular risk, sleep apnea, and joint health that have nothing to do with how much weight is lost.Notable Quote"Everybody focuses on appetite, and you just need to eat less. But now with these medications and how they actually affect our biology, it becomes very clear that there's so much more to this." — Dr. Emily CooperLinks & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
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  Mailbag: Understanding Insulin Resistance Testing and GLP-1 Medication Side Effects 13.04.2026 39min

  Have you been told insulin resistance testing doesn't exist or wondered if you're increasing your GLP-1 dose too quickly?Dr. Cooper, Andrea, and Mark tackle listener questions from around the world, addressing common concerns about insulin resistance testing availability, managing severe GI side effects from higher doses, interpreting DEXA scan results, and developing sustainable maintenance strategies. They discuss the difference between hunger and food noise, explain why winter illness might stall weight loss, and share insights about visceral fat concerns even at normal weight.KEY TAKEAWAYSInsulin resistance can be tested through fasting insulin and glucose ratios, even in countries where insulin testing is less commonRapid weight loss rates above 15% annually may indicate no need for dose increasesSevere GI side effects warrant investigation beyond medication adjustment, including gallbladder evaluationDEXA scans provide valuable visceral fat measurements, but results should be interpreted alongside overall health markersMaintenance strategies should focus on nutritional stability before considering medication taperingNOTABLE QUOTE"It's not that the medicine causes the rebound weight gain, it's that with the medication in there, the body is getting better signals, and then you go and take the medication away and you're in the same boat." — Dr. Emily CooperLinks & ResourcesPodcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.comCooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.comResources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resourcesJoin Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcastSubmit Your Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.comFat Science is supported by the Diabesity Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to increasing access to effective, science-based metabolic care.Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.