Episode 2405 - On this Friday's show Vinnie Tortorich speaks with Dr. Ben Bikman and they discuss weight loss drugs, creating a metabolic storm, if calories count, and more. https://vinnietortorich.com/2023/11/creating-metabolic-storm-with-dr-ben-bikman-episode-2405 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS   YOU CAN WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE - Creating A Metabolic Storm Vinnie asks Dr. Ben Bikman about GLP-1,  which are drugs used for weight loss, like Ozempic, Wegovy, etc. (4:00) Dr. Bikman confirms that there are negative consequences that should be considered and that jumping on these drugs should be delayed. (6:30) He’s not opposed, but he says the metabolism cannot be tricked. The result of very high doses is the slow down of the intestines—food does not leave the stomach. (8:55) These drugs can create a metabolic storm, especially in high doses. He goes into clear detail and shares examples of fat and insulin resistance. (12:00) But then getting back off the medication creates a “metabolic storm”. Vinnie brings up weight loss and muscle loss when on those drugs. (15:30) Dr. Bikman elaborates on muscle loss. Trying to regain muscle is difficult, especially if you’re older. It’s not just a matter of muscle—you must also keep bones strong. (21:45) They discuss resistance training and repetition—it’s most effective to go to failure. (26:15) Don’t worry about the calories, worry about insulin. Focus on nourishing your body with proteins and fat—you do not need insulin spikes to grow muscle. (28:00) Dr. Bikman makes a general recommendation for success in health and weight loss. Are Calories a Thing? They discuss the quality of calories, not just the quantity. (31:00) Dr. Bikman elaborates on the two theories of obesity: the endocrine theory and the caloric theory. Calories are a measure used in physics and don’t translate directly to biochemical science. (33:00) The moment you spike insulin, you slow your metabolism and return to hunger earlier. (40:00) Why is it that when protein raises insulin, it’s not a problem? (44:15) Ben discusses the hormone glucagon and some recent research that is being done. The results of this research are still pending, but Dr. Bikman has some suggestions. Vinnie asks about the “dawn effect.” (48:00) Ben describes the phenomenon and how it affects various issues like T1 and T2 diabetics. He recommends that breakfast be a low-carb version. (52:00) Vinnie has questions about sugar and fat cells, long-chain triglycerides, and if the amount of insulin matters. (53:00) Ben describes how fat cells grow and the role of insulin in that process. Dr. Bikman says most people could not get to 600 lbs; he explains why, and what differences can occur in genetics. He describes the various ways that fat cells react, and how a person can develop things like fatty liver disease, fatty pancreatic disease, and more. They agree that all of it can be changed through lifestyle and nutrition. (1:02:00) Ben says low-calorie, low-fat is not the answer—your first step should be a low-insulin step. Once you reach a certain goal, you can try intermittent fasting, but then plan properly. Vinnie adds that it is important to stay out of a “diet mentality.” Vinnie shares an update to his website that you'll want to check out: a VIP section! Go to for more information. You can find Dr. Ben Bikman on social media @BenBikmanPhD. You can find his excellent book "" here, and also at . PURCHASE BEYOND IMPOSSIBLE (2022) The documentary launched on January 11! Order it TODAY! This is Vinnie’s third documentary in just over three years. Get it now on Apple TV (iTunes) and/or Amazon Video! Link to the film on Apple TV (iTunes):  Then, Share this link with friends, too! It's also now available on Amazon (the USA only for now)!  Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: REVIEWS: Please submit your REVIEW after you watch my films. Your positive REVIEW does matter! FAT: A DOCUMENTARY 2 (2021) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: Then, please share my fact-based, health-focused documentary series with your friends and family. The more views, the better it ranks, so please watch it again with a new friend! REVIEWS: Please submit your REVIEW after you watch my films. Your positive REVIEW does matter! FAT: A DOCUMENTARY (2019) Visit my new Documentaries HQ to find my films everywhere: Then, please share my fact-based, health-focused documentary series with your friends and family. The more views, the better it ranks, so please watch it again with a new friend! REVIEWS: Please submit your REVIEW after you watch my films. Your positive REVIEW does matter!