Episode Title: Blood Sugar Stabilization and Preventive Health with Dr. Amina Goodwin

Summary:
In this insightful episode of the BOSS Business of Surgery Series, Dr. Amina Goodwin shares her expertise on blood sugar stabilization and its impact on overall health. An internal medicine and infectious disease physician originally from Antigua, Dr. Goodwin has been practicing in Mississippi since 2013. She discusses her extensive experience treating diabetic patients and her transition to locum tenens work, which grants her the flexibility to focus on preventive care.

Dr. Goodwin introduces her upcoming book, Beaming Health, set for release on February 6, and explains her BEAM framework for blood sugar management: Burn more sugar, Eat less sugar, Absorb less sugar, and Make less sugar. She highlights the significance of maintaining stable blood sugar levels and examines how stress, diet, and lifestyle choices influence glucose regulation. The discussion also covers the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring and the limitations of medication-based interventions like GLP-1 agonists, advocating for sustainable, lifestyle-based solutions.

00:00:00 – Introduction and Background of Dr. Amina Goodwin
Dr. Goodwin introduces herself, detailing her journey as a physician from Antigua to Mississippi. She discusses her work with diabetic patients and her shift to locum tenens practice, which allows her to focus on preventive care and writing her book.

00:06:14 – The BEAM Framework for Blood Sugar Management
Dr. Goodwin breaks down her BEAM strategy for regulating blood sugar, using a kitchen sink analogy to explain how insulin functions in the body.

00:15:24 – Burning Sugar and Physical Activity
She emphasizes the importance of consistent movement throughout the day rather than relying solely on dedicated gym sessions. She explains the role of muscle mass in sugar metabolism.

00:19:04 – Eating and Sugar Consumption
Dr. Goodwin advises monitoring added sugar intake, setting a limit of 24 grams (6 teaspoons) per day. She also introduces her 'bean food pyramid' concept.

00:24:28 – Absorption and Food Pairing
She explains how fiber, protein, and fat help slow sugar absorption, using a football field analogy to illustrate their effects on blood sugar regulation.

00:27:10 – Stress and Blood Sugar Regulation
Dr. Goodwin discusses the impact of stress on blood sugar levels, including psychological stressors and physical stressors such as sleep apnea and chronic inflammation.

00:30:06 – Medication Approaches and Lifestyle Changes
She reviews GLP-1 agonists and other medications, emphasizing that while they can be helpful, they should not replace foundational lifestyle modifications. She encourages focusing on natural, sustainable health practices.

✔ Monitor added sugar intake – Stay within 24 grams (6 teaspoons) per day (00:20:28)
✔ Incorporate physical activity regularly – Move every 60-90 minutes throughout the day (00:15:59)
✔ Use continuous glucose monitoring – Track real-time blood sugar levels (00:12:15)
✔ Prioritize whole foods – Prepare meals using basic, unprocessed ingredients (00:22:18)
✔ Manage chronic stress – Address underlying factors like sleep apnea and inflammation (00:28:16)

Why You Should Listen:
This episode is essential for healthcare professionals and anyone interested in metabolic health, as Dr. Goodwin provides practical, science-backed strategies for improving blood sugar regulation. Her BEAM framework offers an easy-to-follow guide for optimizing diet, movement, and stress management, helping listeners take control of their long-term health.