Fat Science

By Dr Emily CooperMedicine Health & Fitness

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Typical duration
49 min
per episode

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Fat Science episodes

November 09Mailbag: Navigating GLP-1 Tapers, Alcohol Cravings, and Insulin
What actually happens to your body when you space out GLP-1 doses, stop tracking food, or cut calories to fuel workouts?
Dr. Emily Cooper, Mark Wright, and Andrea Taylor answer listener questions from the mailbag. A Seattle fitness trainer asks how to support clients without promoting under-fueling, while a patient navigating the loss of insurance asks about evidence-based ways to taper or space out tirzepatide doses.
The team evaluates ongoing clinical trials regarding GLP-1 medications and alcohol use disorder, explaining how regular mechanical fueling helps stabilize alcohol cravings. The conversation also tackles the anxiety of abandoning daily food tracking, the limitations of self-reported registries, and why insulin is an essential hormone rather than a metabolic enemy.
Key Takeaways
Fitness professionals can support client health by establishing that proper nourishment is required to prevent injury and see genuine progress.
Gradual dose tapering while maintaining weekly consistency helps avoid the metabolic highs and lows caused by stretching injection intervals too far.
Alcohol acts as an immediate fuel source that bypasses insulin; regular mechanical eating can dramatically reduce alcohol cravings caused by energy deficits.
Transitioning away from scales and calorie apps requires establishing mechanical eating patterns with balanced food groups at predictable intervals.
Insulin and glucose are vital bodily lifelines; extreme carbohydrate restriction can cause diet backlash and lean tissue loss over time.
Connect with Us
Podcast Home:fatsciencepodcast.com
Cooper Center for Metabolism:coopermetabolic.com
Diabesity Institute: diabesityinstitute.org
Join Our Community:patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcast
Submit Your Question: [email protected] or [email protected]
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.
Credits
Produced by: Podcast Impact Studio https://podcastimpactstudio.com
42 min
November 02Maybe You Don’t Need a GLP-1
Taking a GLP-1 medication when your body does not need it can actually harm your health. Dr. Emily Cooper breaks down who these drugs are truly for.
Dr. Emily Cooper, Mark Wright, and Andrea Taylor tackle the cultural assumption that everyone needs to be on a GLP-1 medication. They examine how marketing and social media trends have pushed these clinical tools into the realm of casual quick fixes, overlooking the biology of how they actually function inside the body.
The discussion centers on the medical reality that a high body weight alone does not automatically mean a person is metabolically unhealthy. Dr. Cooper explains the expanded health indications for these medications, why severe calorie restriction while taking them causes lean mass loss, and what objective health markers actually justify pharmacologic treatment.
Fat Science, Dr. Cooper, and the Diabesity Institute have no financial relationship with any pharmaceutical company. This conversation focuses on separating individualized metabolic care from commercial pressure, exploring alternative treatments like metformin, and understanding why a lack of response to these drugs is never the patient's fault.
Key Takeaways
GLP-1 medications are designed for specific metabolic dysfunctions, not for casual use or minor weight changes.
A higher body weight does not automatically indicate poor metabolic health, and up to 25% of individuals with normal weight have underlying metabolic comorbidities.
Severe calorie restriction on a GLP-1 leads to significant loss of lean muscle mass rather than healthy metabolic stabilization.
Alternative medications like metformin, Contrave, or SGLT2 inhibitors may target individual root issues more effectively than GLP-1s alone.
If a medication does not produce results, it reflects the limitations of current medical therapies rather than personal failure.
Resources Mentioned
Cooper Center for Metabolism
Diabesity Institute
Connect with Us
Podcast Home:fatsciencepodcast.com
Cooper Center for Metabolism:coopermetabolic.com
Diabesity Institute: diabesityinstitute.org
Resources from Dr. Cooper:coopermetabolic.com/resources
Join Our Community:patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcast
Submit Your Question: [email protected] or [email protected]
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.
Produced by: Podcast Impact Studio https://podcastimpactstudio.com
49 min
October 26Mailbag: Why Restriction Stalls Metabolic Health
When your body holds onto weight or reacts to exercise with fatigue and headaches, restriction is rarely the fix. Fueling consistently comes first.
Dr. Emily Cooper, Mark Wright, and Andrea Taylor answer listener questions from around the world. The conversation addresses standard metabolic screenings, the risks of using weight loss medications during active eating disorders, and why disproportionate lower body fat may point to conditions like lipedema.
The team also examines HbA1c test variability, adult-onset autoimmune diabetes genetics, and why severe restriction causes the brain to raise metabolic defenses. Finally, Dr. Cooper breaks down how intense exercise acts as a physiological stressor and why adequate recovery matters more than pushing through burnout.
Key Takeaways
Fasting insulin is often excluded from routine panels despite providing early insight into cardiovascular and metabolic risk.
Active eating disorders disrupt metabolic hormones and require specialized treatment before metabolic health can be evaluated.
Disproportionate lower extremity fat storage that resists lifestyle interventions may signal lipedema rather than standard adipose tissue.
HbA1c tests can fluctuate by up to 0.2 points, making long-term patterns and mixed meal tolerance tests far more informative.
Exercise elevates stress hormones, and working out while sleep-deprived or under-fueled breaks the body down instead of strengthening it.
Resources Mentioned
Diabesity Foundations Course
Mechanical Eating Guide on Patreon
Connect with Us
Podcast Home:fatsciencepodcast.com
Cooper Center for Metabolism:coopermetabolic.com
Diabesity Institute: diabesityinstitute.org
Resources from Dr. Cooper:coopermetabolic.com/resources
Join Our Community:patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcast
Submit Your Question: [email protected] or [email protected]
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.
Produced by: Podcast Impact Studio https://podcastimpactstudio.com
42 min
October 18Understanding New Metabolic Medications and How They Work
Metabolic medications work by mimicking natural gut hormones and brain signals, not just by slowing down the digestive tract.
Dr. Emily Cooper, Mark Wright, and Andrea Taylor break down the rapidly evolving landscape of metabolic therapies. From oral options to high-dose formulations and pipeline molecules, the conversation cuts through public confusion to focus on biological mechanisms.
The discussion explores how these therapies interact with complex melanocortin and hormonal pathways in the brain. Rather than relying on rigid protocols or escalating doses prematurely, effective metabolic care focuses on individual biological response and measurable health parameters.
Key Takeaways
Modern metabolic therapies are designed to mimic native hormones like GLP-1, GIP, and amylin rather than simply slowing gastric emptying.
Clinical trial dosing sequences are designed for regulatory approval, while individualized clinical practice prioritizes symptom stability and health markers over reaching maximum doses.
Health improvements such as blood pressure regulation, cholesterol shifts, and liver markers often occur independently of scale changes.
Resources Mentioned
Diabesity Institute Foundations Course
Cooper Center for Metabolism
Connect with Us
Podcast Home:fatsciencepodcast.com
Cooper Center for Metabolism:coopermetabolic.com
Diabesity Institute: diabesityinstitute.org
Resources from Dr. Cooper:coopermetabolic.com/resources
Join Our Community:patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcast
Submit Your Question: [email protected] or [email protected]
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.
Produced by: Podcast Impact Studio https://podcastimpactstudio.com
56 min
October 12Mailbag: Why Calorie Deficits Stall Metabolism
Wondering why weight stalls on treatment? Dr. Emily Cooper explains how the brain defends set points and why eating less stops progress.
Dr. Emily Cooper, Mark Wright, and Andrea Taylor answer listener letters from around the world. The conversation addresses why athletic men with a BMI of 27 can still show high visceral fat on a DEXA scan, how medications defend metabolic set points, and why intentional undereating triggers starvation responses.
The team also examines global access to metabolic treatments, dual incretin agonists versus single agonists, artificial sweeteners, and how to interpret two-hour insulin and glucose tolerance curves.
Key Takeaways
Rapid weight reduction without adequate nutrition can cause lean mass loss and trigger metabolic defense mechanisms.
Dual incretin therapies stimulate GIP receptors far more than GLP-1 receptors compared to natural human hormones, creating different patient responses.
Intentional calorie restriction reduces natural incretin production and can impair metabolic signaling, making mechanical fueling essential.
Fasting insulin suppression combined with pre-diabetes indicators can reflect the brain pulling glucose during periods of low carbohydrate intake.
Resources Mentioned
Diabesity Foundations Course
Cooper Center for Metabolism
Diabesity Institute
Connect with Us
Podcast Home:fatsciencepodcast.com
Cooper Center for Metabolism:coopermetabolic.com
Diabesity Institute: diabesityinstitute.org
Resources from Dr. Cooper:coopermetabolic.com/resources
Join Our Community:patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcast
Submit Your Question: [email protected] or [email protected]
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.
Produced by: Podcast Impact Studio https://podcastimpactstudio.com
52 min
October 05Breaking Drug News: Combination GLP-1s, Treatment for Kids, and Lp(a)
What do new drug reports really mean for your treatment?
Explore groundbreaking updates on potential diabetes and weight-loss drugs from Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly. Dr. Emily Cooper dives into top-line results, explaining what these findings mean for those struggling with metabolic issues.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Understanding the difference between efficacy estimand and treatment policy estimand.
Cagrisema’s potential in aiding weight loss compared to Mounjaro in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Semaglutide's effectiveness in children and its implications.
NOTABLE QUOTE
"Many of our patients with metabolic dysfunction have increased cardiometabolic risk." — Dr. Emily Cooper
LINKS & RESOURCES
Learn more about Diabesity Foundations: learn.diabesityinstitute.org
Podcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.com
Cooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.com
Diabesity Institute: diabesityinstitute.org
Resources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resources
Join Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcast
Submit Your Question: [email protected] or [email protected]
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.
48 min
September 28The Fat Science Origin Story
Have you ever felt that diets don't work for you?

Mark Wright, Andrea Taylor, and Dr. Emily Cooper dive deep into the science of metabolism, challenging the myths surrounding diets and weight gain. With personal stories and expert insights, they explore how metabolic function and genetics play vital roles in our health.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Diets often don't address underlying metabolic issues.
Metabolic syndrome involves multiple health systems and requires comprehensive care.
GLP-1 medications have changed the treatment landscape for metabolic dysfunction.

NOTABLE QUOTE
"It's not your fault... you were dealt not the best hand genetically." — Dr. Emily Cooper
Links & Resources
Podcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.com
Cooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.com
Resources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resources
Join Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcast
Submit Your Question: [email protected] or [email protected]
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.
1 hr 23 min
September 21Listener Spotlight: Alessio’s Metabolic Wake-Up Call
Can metabolic dysfunction be the cause of anxiety?

Join Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and guest Alessio De Martis as they explore the fascinating intersection of metabolic health, anxiety, and the struggle with traditional diet advice. Learn how under-fueling can exacerbate metabolic issues and what that means for your overall health.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Alessio's experience highlights the struggle of self-managing metabolic health in Europe.
Under-fueling can worsen metabolic dysfunction, disrupting body stability.
The body's response to hypoglycemia can mirror symptoms of anxiety.

NOTABLE QUOTE
"If you have a history of hypoglycemia, you're gonna have a lot less tolerance than other people." — Dr. Emily Cooper

GUEST BIO
Alessio De Martis is a 41-year-old listener from Rome, Italy, who shares his experiences with metabolic dysfunction, hypoglycemia, and anxiety. His journey represents the challenges faced by many in understanding their metabolic health.

Links & Resources
Podcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.com
Cooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.com
Resources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resources
Join Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcast
Submit Your Question: [email protected] or [email protected]

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.
54 min
September 14Back to School Metabolism Tips for the Whole Family
What's the back-to-school metabolism shift all about?

The return to a school routine can have surprising impacts on metabolic health. Dr. Emily Cooper explains how sleep, nutrition, and scheduling affect metabolism, and offers practical advice for parents managing these transitions.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Sleep quality is crucial for kids' and parents' metabolic health.
Proper fueling before, during, and after exercise is essential for kids.
Maintaining a consistent schedule can help manage stress and metabolism.

NOTABLE QUOTE
"Fueling the workout enhances our fitness basically, and reduces our stress hormones and strengthens our metabolism." — Dr. Emily Cooper

LINKS & RESOURCES
Studies on sleep and insulin resistance
Podcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.com
Cooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.com
Diabesity Institute: diabesityinstitute.org
Resources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resources
Join Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcast
Submit Your Question: [email protected] or [email protected]
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.
52 min
September 07Mailbag: Navigating Menopause and Metabolic Health
Is menopause impacting your weight and health in unexpected ways?

In this episode, the hosts tackle an assortment of listener questions about weight loss, metabolic health, and menopause. They delve into the intricacies of medication tolerance, the ethics of unregulated weight loss drugs, and the physiological changes that can affect women during menopause.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Understanding metabolic and hormonal impacts during menopause is crucial.
Unregulated weight loss drugs pose significant risks and ethical concerns.
Medication tolerance and side effects can vary greatly among individuals.

NOTABLE QUOTE
"It's not your fault." — Dr. Emily Cooper

Links & Resources
Podcast Home: fatsciencepodcast.com
Cooper Center for Metabolism: coopermetabolic.com
Resources from Dr. Cooper: coopermetabolic.com/resources
Join Our Community: patreon.com/cw/FatSciencePodcast
Submit Your Question: [email protected] or [email protected]

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.
48 min

About Fat Science

From the publisher's feed

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. In each episode, we share little-known facts and personal experiences to dispel…