Fat Science

• Blood Fats: The Good, the Bad & the Ugly

  This week on Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright dive into the world of blood fats—unpacking what cholesterol numbers really mean for your health. They break down HDL (the “good” cholesterol), LDL (the “bad” cholesterol), triglycerides, and spotlight the often-overlooked lipoprotein(a), a genetic risk marker with significant consequences for heart health. The team dispels myths about fats in our diet, covers the impact of lifestyle and genetics, and explores how advanced testing can reveal hidden risks. You’ll come away understanding which fats matter most, why particle size counts, and what actions can help manage your numbers and protect your heart.Key Takeaways:Blood fats, specifically HDL, LDL, and triglycerides, are critical indicators of cardiovascular risk. Advanced testing can identify dangerous subtypes and genetic markers like lipoprotein(a) that standard panels miss.HDL has benefits, but high numbers don’t cancel out high LDL; LDL particle size and count are crucial—small, dense particles are more harmful.Lipoprotein(a) is a major genetic risk factor for heart disease and stroke that isn’t modifiable by diet or exercise; new treatments are in development.Plant-based monounsaturated fats (like olive oil and avocados), resistant starches, and soluble fiber offer metabolic and heart-health benefits, but even perfect diets may not lower genetic cholesterol risks.Lifestyle factors—exercise, avoiding smoking, quality sleep, and managing conditions like diabetes—are critical for reducing cardiovascular risk, especially if you have inherited risk markers.Heart health isn’t just about body size—“looking healthy” doesn’t guarantee healthy arteries; everyone should know their numbers and consider advanced heart scans as needed.Resources:Connect with Dr. Emily Cooper on LinkedIn.Connect with Mark Wright on LinkedIn.Connect with Andrea Taylor on Instagram.Fat Science is a podcast on a mission to explain where our fat really comes from and why it won’t go and stay away. We are committed to creating a world where people are empowered with accurate information about metabolism and recognize that fat isn’t a failure. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.If you have a question for Dr. Cooper, send an email to [email protected]. If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, you can also reach us us at [email protected] Science is supported by the non-profit Diabesity Institute which is on a mission to increase access to effective, science-based medical care for those suffering from or at risk for diabesity. https://diabesityresearchfoundation.org/

  --------  

  37:15
• Diabetes Wake-Up Call: The Silent Epidemic

  Diabetes Wake-Up Call: The Silent EpidemicIn this episode of Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright take on a troubling statistic—half of American adults are either diabetic or prediabetic, and for those with prediabetes, 8 in 10 don’t know it. Think about your own family. The odds are one in two of your loved ones are at risk.The good news is diagnosing diabetes is easy, and in many cases it’s reversible. Dr. Cooper breaks down the tests you should get, the numbers to look for and the top treatments. Taking control of your diabetes risk just could save your life. Key Takeaways:Diabetes affects nearly half of the U.S. population, with approximately 80% of prediabetes cases undiagnosed.Type 1 diabetes requires lifelong insulin therapy, while type 2 is often linked to genetic predisposition and lifestyle, with potential for reversal.Regular screening for glucose (blood sugar) and HbA1c levels (your long-term blood sugar average) is crucial for early detection of prediabetes and diabetes, applicable to both adults and children from age 10.Managing diabetes involves a comprehensive approach, including diet, exercise, lifestyle modifications, and medications like metformin and GLP1’s.Medications are not a failure but a crucial tool in preventing severe complications and maintaining a high quality of life.Resources:Connect with Dr. Emily Cooper on LinkedIn.Connect with Mark Wright on LinkedIn.Connect with Andrea Taylor on Instagram.Fat Science is a podcast on a mission to explain where our fat really comes from and why it won’t go and stay away. We are committed to creating a world where people are empowered with accurate information about metabolism and recognize that fat isn’t a failure. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.If you have a question for Dr. Cooper, send an email to [email protected]. If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, you can also reach us us at [email protected].

  --------  

  38:43
• Understanding Metabolic Health: Top Ten Strategies (Part 2)

  In this episode of Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright continue exploring the top ten positive things you can do for your metabolism, focusing on steps five through one. With an honest and approachable discussion, this episode sheds light on essential topics like endocrine disruptors, nutrition, sleep, body image, and why the focus should be on health, not weight. Get practical advice for positive changes you can implement in your daily life.Key Takeaways:Endocrine Disruptors – Learn about EDCs and MDCs, their widespread presence, and steps to minimize exposure for better metabolic health.Nutrition for Health, Not Weight Loss – Shift your focus to fueling your body and maintaining a positive relationship with food, emphasizing nutrition over diet restrictions.Sleep and Sleep Apnea – Understand the critical role of sleep in metabolism, and consider sleep apnea testing to improve metabolic function and overall well-being.Body Image – Address the influence of societal pressures and focus on positive self-image to support metabolic health, being mindful of language around children.Focus on Health, Not Weight – Highlight the importance of prioritizing health metrics over weight, and recognize the limitations of using BMI as a sole indicator of health.Resources:Connect with Dr. Emily Cooper on LinkedIn.Connect with Mark Wright on LinkedIn.Connect with Andrea Taylor on Instagram.Fat Science is a podcast on a mission to explain where our fat really comes from and why it won’t go and stay away. We are committed to creating a world where people are empowered with accurate information about metabolism and recognize that fat isn’t a failure. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.If you have a question for Dr. Cooper, send an email to [email protected]. If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, you can also reach us us at [email protected] Science is supported by the non-profit Diabesity Institute which is on a mission to increase access to effective, science-based medical care for those suffering from or at risk for diabesity. https://diabesityresearchfoundation.org/

  --------  

  37:41
• Understanding Metabolic Health: Top Ten Strategies (Part 1)

  n this episode of Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright break down their top ten lifestyle strategies to enhance your metabolic health. They critically discuss powerful yet straightforward approaches that can significantly improve metabolism. The focus is on easy-to-implement, applicable tips, from knowing key health numbers to managing stress effectively.Key Takeaways:Know Your Numbers: Understanding baseline health metrics like blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol is crucial for assessing risk and taking proactive steps toward better health. Dr. Cooper breaks down the key metrics you should ask your doctor about.Physical Activity: Integrate enjoyable and consistent physical activities into your daily routine to strengthen bones, muscles, and cardiovascular health.Stress Management: Be aware of the impact stress can have on metabolism and explore ways to address stress in life, including therapy, meditation, and lifestyle changes.Gut Health: Maintain a varied diet rich in probiotics and prebiotic foods to support a healthy microbiome and overall well-being.Substances: Avoid substance overuse including alcohol and nicotine, which can negatively impact metabolic health.Resources:Connect with Dr. Emily Cooper on LinkedIn.Connect with Mark Wright on LinkedIn.Connect with Andrea Taylor on Instagram.Fat Science is a podcast on a mission to explain where our fat really comes from and why it won’t go and stay away. We are committed to creating a world where people are empowered with accurate information about metabolism and recognize that fat isn’t a failure. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.If you have a question for Dr. Cooper, send an email to [email protected]. If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, you can also reach us us at [email protected] Science is supported by the non-profit Diabesity Institute which is on a mission to increase access to effective, science-based medical care for those suffering from or at risk for diabesity. https://diabesityresearchfoundation.org/

  --------  

  48:55
• The People Side of Metabolic Medicine

  In this episode of Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright explore the human connections in metabolic medicine. With special guest Alisha, a nurse practitioner at the Cooper Center for Metabolism, the episode delves into how patient-provider relationships have a profound impact on metabolic health outcomes. If you're interested in how the world of metabolic medicine is evolving and want a human-centered perspective, this episode is a must-listen. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of how interconnected our body’s health systems are and why personalized care matters.Key Takeaways:Alisha’s Journey: Discover how Alisha transitioned from the ICU to preventive care in metabolic medicine, driven by her desire to prevent end-stage diseases she witnessed firsthand.Breaking Myths: The episode sheds light on why counting calories isn't the answer and how metabolic dysfunction is not just a collection of isolated symptoms but a comprehensive system affecting overall health.Preventive Mindset: Learn from Dr. Cooper and Alisha as they discuss the importance of early intervention, preventive care, and how understanding your body’s metabolic signals today can avert future health issues.Finding the Right Help: Looking for an expert in obesity medicine? Click the following link to find a board-certified specialist in your area: https://abom.learningbuilder.com/public/membersearchResources:Connect with Dr. Emily Cooper on LinkedIn.Connect with Mark Wright on LinkedIn.Connect with Andrea Taylor on Instagram.Fat Science is a podcast on a mission to explain where our fat really comes from and why it won’t go and stay away. We are committed to creating a world where people are empowered with accurate information about metabolism and recognize that fat isn’t a failure. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.If you have a question for Dr. Cooper, send an email to [email protected].  If you have a show idea, feedback, or just want to connect, you can also reach us us at [email protected] Science is supported by the non-profit Diabesity Institute which is on a mission to increase access to effective, science-based medical care for those suffering from or at risk for diabesity. https://diabesityresearchfoundation.org/

  --------  

  35:37

More Health & Wellness podcasts

Trending Health & Wellness podcasts

About Fat Science