In this insightful episode, Dr. Vera Tarman and Molly Painschab sit down with Dr. Gurpreet Singh Padda to explore the fascinating concept of meta-inflammation and its role in chronic pain, obesity, and addiction. Dr. Padda shares his unique journey and extensive expertise in addressing metabolic dysfunction and inflammation through a sound nutritional approach. Episode Highlights

1. Understanding Meta-Inflammation

   • What is meta-inflammation, and how does it connect chronic pain, obesity, and addiction?
   • The role of the omega-3 to omega-6 ratio in reducing inflammation and improving metabolic health.

2. Food Addiction and Dopamine

   • How processed foods hijack our dopamine systems for profit.
   • Why hyper-processed foods like high-fructose corn syrup and seed oils contribute to addiction and inflammation.

3. Chronic Pain and Inflammation

   • The relationship between metabolic inflammation and the durability of pain treatments.
   • How the overuse of narcotics impacts the body's natural endorphin production and worsens pain.

4. The Gut-Brain Connection

   • Why the gut is the body’s “primary brain” and how gut health influences emotional well-being and addiction.
   • The impact of gut microbiome imbalances, leaky gut, and hyper-processed foods on inflammation and addiction.

5. Historical Context of Processed Foods

   • The origins of food subsidies and how they shaped today’s processed food landscape.
   • The harmful effects of seed oils and trans fats on metabolic and vascular health.

Key Takeaways

• Food is Addictive by Design: Hyper-processed foods are engineered to trigger dopamine release, reinforcing addictive behaviors.
• Omega-3 to Omega-6 Ratio: Balancing this ratio can reduce inflammation, improve metabolic health, and curb cravings.
• The Role of Meta-Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is at the root of many conditions, including food addiction, and addressing it requires a holistic approach.
• Gut Health is Key: A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for reducing inflammation and improving overall health.
• Processed Foods and Profit: The food industry manipulates ingredients, such as increasing the fructose levels in sweeteners, which drives addiction and metabolic disease.

Next Episode

Stay tuned for part two, where we explore solutions to meta-inflammation, including dietary strategies, reducing processed foods, and restoring gut health to combat food addiction.

Connect with Dr. Padda

Website: https://painmd.tv/

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The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.