Inside the SMHP Research Academy: How Practitioners Can Turn Real-World Results Into Published Science

When the Society of Metabolic Health Practitioners (SMHP) launched the Journal of Metabolic Health in late 2023, one question quickly rose to the surface: How do we help frontline clinicians, many of whom have never conducted research, learn to design, run, and publish high-quality studies?

Enter Dr. Melanie Tidman.

A professor, researcher, and longtime SMHP member, Melanie recognized a gap, and built a solution. The result is the SMHP Research Academy, a fully supported, step-by-step pathway that teaches practitioners how to take research ideas from concept to publication. In this podcast episode, she walks listeners through what the Academy offers, why it exists, and how it's already helping clinicians produce peer-reviewed science.

Below is a summary of what you'll hear, but the full interview is worth every minute.

A One-of-a-Kind Resource for Practitioners

Melanie created the Academy in early 2024 with a clear mission: make research accessible to clinicians working in the real world.

"I had the vision back then to create an academy where our members who have never done research before could learn all of the ins and outs… of how to do research, how to collect data, how to analyze that data and how to publish a research article."

Over nine months she built a 10-module, self-paced research curriculum, complete with video lessons, customizable learning formats, downloadable notes, and direct faculty support. Members can take the modules in order or revisit individual sections as needed.

Each module, she notes, is "completely comprehensive and customizable for your own learning style."

IRB Support—Including Up to $3,000 in Savings

One of the biggest hurdles for new researchers is the IRB (Institutional Review Board) process. It's required for human studies in the U.S., but few practitioners know how to navigate it, and few are aware that approval often costs between $1,500 and $3,000.

Melanie explains the differences between exempt, expedited, and full-board studies and then shares the Academy's unique advantage:

"Two of us on the academy faculty are also faculty for universities having access to university IRBs… we become the primary investigator for the purpose of the IRB application… and there is no cost."

For members, that alone is a major benefit—one of many.

Faculty-Guided Support From Design to Publication

The Academy pairs each participant with a research mentor and faculty team specializing in study design, data analysis, manuscript writing, and qualitative methods. Projects now include case reports, retrospective analyses, literature reviews, mixed-methods studies, and more.

As Melanie notes, the Academy already has 16 projects underway, including "three articles in peer review right now."

She emphasizes that no project is too small: "Say you just have one patient who had an incredible result, and you want to publish… I'm your man."

Up to $10,000 in Total Value—Free for SMHP Members

When Melanie adds up the typical costs—IRB fees, data-analysis consultation, manuscript editing, and open-access publication fees—she estimates that members receive between $9,000 and $10,000 worth of services at no charge.

"If you publish with the Journal of Metabolic Health and you are a member of the SMHP, the SMHP will pay your open-access publishing fees," she explains. "There's another three to four thousand dollars worth of savings."

Why This Matters

The Academy empowers clinicians, from solo practitioners to large-system physicians, to turn real-world metabolic health outcomes into peer-reviewed evidence. And as Melanie reminds listeners:

"I can't say enough about my gratitude… It's there for your benefit. If you are a member, you have an entire Academy worth of information at your fingertips."

Learn more about The SMHP™ and join here.

I talk with producer, Kevin Carter, about the new movie they just launched called 'Animal'. This movie seeks to set the record straight about the benefits of the carnivore diet and what the 'Proper Human Diet' for humans really looks like. It sets out to debunk so many of the untruths about meat and animal products that are proliferated by the plant based community. It imparts the information in such a relatable way and provides us with, what I called, a 'toolbox of comebacks' so that we can have meaningful discussions with people who seek to disseminate misinformation about what we should be eating.

The film features so many of the people who have graced our stages as speakers at many of our events. Icons like Dr Robert Cywes, Dr Robert Kiltz, Dr Anthony Chaffee, Dr Shawn Baker, Dr Ken Berry, and Sally Norton are all featured in the movie. The film just launched on June 20 in select theatres and released that day to streaming as well. It is available on pretty much all platforms where you can watch streaming content.

The most interesting thing for me that came out of our conversation was the fact that people can arrange screenings in local theatres and even places like church halls on an ongoing basis. I was very excited to hear about that and encourage everyone out there to try to do something in their town or city. Not only will you be helping to get this message out but you can put together an amazing community event and really do something real to make a difference. Just go to the website and then scroll down and click on 'Host a screening'. There's no risk, if you don't get enough people to sign up for it to be cost effective then that screening doesn't go ahead and everyone gets their money back. It's not hard!

In the latest episode of the LowCarbUSA Podcast, Pam and I sit down with Siouxie Boshoff, founder of Scrummy Sweets, for a discussion exploring the murky world of food manufacturing, ingredient transparency, and the quest for truly clean, sugar-free treats.

She says, "I'm just a girl who loved gummy bears and couldn't find one that didn't either kick me out of ketosis, spike my blood sugar, or disrupt my digestive tract in a way that was pretty catastrophic," she explained. "So I made my own."

Throughout the conversation, she exposes some of the food industry's best-kept secrets—like how manufacturers sneak toxic additives into products without disclosing them. She recounts a shocking moment when a production manager suggested using an anti-foaming agent to fix a minor visual flaw in her gummy bears, "She looked at me and said, 'Oh, don't worry, you don't have to put it on the label. It's just considered part of the manufacturing process.' And I was like—You think I don't want it in there because I don't want to put it on the label? I eat my own product!"

Siouxie's commitment to clean ingredients is unwavering. She discusses the meticulous process of sourcing organic, non-GMO ingredients and how even "natural flavours" can be a smokescreen for hidden additives. Her message is clear: if you care about your health, you need to demand better.

Her insights are already making an impact. One sceptical physician at LowCarbUSA's recent Symposium for Metabolic Health in Boca Raton, FL admitted he initially avoided Siouxie's booth, assuming her products were just another "sugar-free gimmick." But after attending her talk, his perspective completely shifted, "I've been avoiding them all weekend, thinking it's just another sweet thing I can't trust," he said, "but after hearing you speak, I get it. We need more products like this."

From revealing the hidden dangers of maltodextrin to explaining why she insists on MCT oil over seed oils in flavouring agents, Siouxie leaves no stone unturned. If you've ever wondered what's really in your "healthy" snacks—or why so many sugar-free products still sabotage metabolic health—this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Watch the full interview and join the conversation on how we can push for cleaner, truly nourishing food choices in our world today.

ScrummySweets website Scrummy Sweets Instagram Scrummy Sweets Facebook

In this powerful episode of the LowCarbUSA podcast, Doug Reynolds and Pam Devine sit down with Beth McNally and Matt Miernik, the couple behind T1D Nutrition, to discuss their journey with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and the transformative role of nutrition in managing the condition.

Their journey began in 2015 when their son Lachlan was diagnosed with T1D at age 9. After months of frustration with conventional high-carb, insulin-heavy treatments, they adopted a very low-carb diet, which dramatically improved Lachlan's blood glucose stability and brought his A1C levels into the normal range. Now, at 18, Lachlan is a thriving athlete, and Beth and Matt are dedicated to sharing the benefits of therapeutic carbohydrate reduction with others facing similar challenges.

A central theme of the conversation is the recently published Position Paper by The SMHP on therapeutic carbohydrate reduction for type 1 diabetes, to which Beth, Matt, and a team of experts have made significant contributions. This paper will revolutionize T1D management by advocating for therapeutic carbohydrate reduction as a viable, evidence-based option. It calls for healthcare providers to support patients choosing this approach and underscores the importance of continued research and education on low-carb nutritional strategies.

Beth expresses her enthusiasm for the Position Paper, noting its potential to challenge current T1D care practices. With only about 17% of youth and 21% of adults meeting the American Diabetes Association's A1C target of 7.0, this paper could be a game-changer, providing clinicians with new guidelines and resources to enhance patient outcomes. It advocates for open access and support for those exploring low-carb diets as a therapeutic intervention, signaling a much-needed shift in mindset.

Throughout the episode, Beth and Matt stress how this Position Paper will empower both patients and clinicians, offering a solid foundation for discussing low-carb options within healthcare teams and integrating evidence-backed guidelines into mainstream T1D care. They encourage families to share the Position Paper with their doctors, fostering more comprehensive and supportive care.

The couple also reflects on their involvement in the January 2024 LowCarbUSA Boca Raton Symposium for Metabolic Health, which featured a dedicated Type 1 Day. This event assembled international experts in T1D management, including Dr. Ian Lake, Dr. Suzanne Schneider, Dr. Eric Westman, Dr. Belinda Lennerz, and Dr. Robert Cywes, who shared innovative insights into how nutrition can stabilize blood glucose levels and improve the quality of life for those with T1D. These presentations set the stage for the Position Paper and underscored the need for a low-carb approach to gain wider recognition and support within the medical community.

Matt offers additional insights into why therapeutic carbohydrate reduction is so effective, explaining how reducing carbohydrate intake decreases insulin dependency, leading to more stable blood glucose levels. He compares it to "removing logs from a fire," minimizing the blood glucose fluctuations that make T1D so difficult to manage. This Position Paper will address these scientific principles, equipping clinicians with the knowledge and tools to guide their patients more effectively.

Matt also discusses the phenomenon of "double diabetes," a condition where individuals with type 1 diabetes develop insulin resistance, resembling type 2 diabetes. He explains how the conventional high-carb diet paired with large insulin doses can lead to this dangerous overlap, increasing health risks and complications. By adopting a low-carb approach, insulin needs are minimized, reducing the chances of developing double diabetes and supporting better metabolic health in people with T1D.

Doug and Pam share how eye-opening the Type 1 Day event was for them and other attendees, with many healthcare professionals admitting they gained more insight into T1D management in one day than they had in their entire careers.

Click here to listen and discover the latest advancements in therapeutic carbohydrate reduction.

Additionally, LowCarbUSA® has released all the Dedicated Type 1 Diabetes Workshop & Presenter videos from the recent LCUSA & SMHP Symposium for Metabolic Health, held in January. This video playlist features expert presentations that explore therapeutic carbohydrate reduction, optimal protein intake, healthy fats, and low-carb strategies for T1D.

Featured speakers in this series include:

• Dr. Èvelyne Bourdua-Roy, MD & Dr. Tro Kalayjian, DO- Workshops intro & Prevailing outcomes in T1D
• Beth McNally, MS MA CNS LDN - Therapeutic Carbohydrate Reduction (TCR)/Low-carb Diet Implementation for T1D
• Dr. Ian Lake, BSc, BM,MRCGP - Low-Carb in T1D: Getting started, troubleshooting and guidance
• Dr. Belinda Lennerz, MD - Medication & Technology Implementation
• Allison Herschede, BSN, RN, CDCES - Hormonal Challenges for Women with T1D
• Dr. Ian Lake, BSc, BM,MRCGP - Exercise how to & Fasting (intermittent and multi-day)
• Lester Hightower & Beth McNally, MS MA CNS LDN - Parents Perspective - TCR/Low-carb for Type 1 diabetes
• Dr. Eric Westman, MD, MHS - Standard of Care - Advances and challenges in Type 1 diabetes care
• Dr. Jessica Turton, PhD, MND, B.App.Sc (ExSpSc) - Current research on low-carbohydrate diets for Type 1 diabetes management
• Dr. Belinda Lennerz, MD - Children living with Type one Diabetes - Current and future research questions pertaining to therapeutic dietary carbohydrate reduction in children
• Dr. Eric Westman, MD, MHS, Dr. Jessica Turton, PhD, MND, B.App.Sc (ExSpSc), & Dr Belinda Lennerz, MD - Panel Discussion
• Dr. Robert Cywes, MD, PhD - Clinical implementation of low-carbohydrate diets in T1DM – experiences from adults and children
• Dr. Ian Lake, BSc, BM,MRCGP - Exercise and Therapeutic Carbohydrate Reduction – Current research and clinical experiences
• Suzanne Schneider, PhD Researcher, MSc, Bcomm - Cognitive and Psychological Implications of Carbohydrate Reduction in T1DM
• Dr. Robert Cywes, MD, PhD, Dr. Ian Lake, BSc, BM,MRCGP, & Suzanne Schneider, PhD Researcher, MSc, Bcomm - Panel Discussion

These videos are available for free on the LowCarbUSA® YouTube channel in the "Type 1 Workshop - Symposium for Metabolic Health - Boca 2024" Playlist. Explore this valuable resource to gain insights from the leading voices in T1D management and be part of the growing community dedicated to improving outcomes for those living with type 1 diabetes.

Links: T1D Nutrition website

In a recent LowCarbUSA®, hosts Doug Reynolds, MHP and Pam Devine, MHP spoke with Dr. Jeremiah Eisenschenk and Dr. Angie Ausban, two prominent practitioners from the Brainerd Lakes area in Minnesota, about the upcoming LowCarbUSA® Metabolic Health Conference in Brainerd Lakes. This one-day event, scheduled for September 21, aims to unite healthcare professionals and the public around the importance of metabolic health.

Dr. Eisenschenk, a board-certified Family and Obesity Medicine physician, shared his journey into metabolic health, which began after attending a transformative lecture in 2016. Since then, he has co-founded the Metabolic Health Conference in Brainerd Lakes and Essentia Health – Brainerd Weight Management Department, bringing his expertise to both the hospital and community settings. "I saw some pretty impactful results, even in six months," he noted, reflecting on the positive changes in his patients' health through carbohydrate reduction approaches.

Dr. Ausban, who has a background in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, recounted her own evolution in understanding obesity and metabolic health. After co-founding the CentraCare Medical Weight Management program, she became certified in Obesity Medicine and later joined CRMC as the Medical Director of the Metabolic Health and Medical Weight Management Program. "It's not just obesity and diabetes; it's everything—heart disease, stroke, dementia," she emphasized, underscoring the widespread impact of insulin resistance.

The one-day event is open to the public, but technical enough to also offer optional CME opportunities for healthcare professionals, carbohydrate reduction meals, and local vendors, fostering a collaborative environment between the community to address the growing metabolic health crisis.

The symposium will feature a diverse lineup of expert speakers, including:

• Robert Cywes, MD, PhD
• Gurpreet Padda, MD, MHP, MBA
• Mark Cucuzzella, MD, FAAFP, MHP
• Vera Tarman, MD
• Jeremiah Eisenschenk, MD
• Angelina Ausban, MD
• Shawn Roberts, MD.

This event is unique for the Brainerd Lakes area, as four health systems have come together to support this initiative—a rare collaboration in today's competitive healthcare landscape. Dr. Eisenschenk highlighted the importance of this unity, saying, "If we can coalesce for this greater mission... any part of America, any part of the world, can do this."

In addition to the symposium, a charity golf event was going to be organized by Dr. Ausban's husband, Kevin Smith, but will now be postponed and take place next spring to raise funds for the Society of Metabolic Health Practitioners and the local Boys and Girls Club. Dr. Ausban invited attendees to participate, adding, "We are super excited about this event."

The upcoming symposium promises to be an inspiring and educational gathering, providing healthcare professionals and the public with the tools and knowledge to improve metabolic health and, ultimately, the quality of life for many.

Learn more and register here.

This podcast episode offers just a preview of the comprehensive, science-backed health insights Dr. Roshani Sanghani will share at the 9th Annual San Diego Symposium for Metabolic Health, August 15-18. Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge and interact with leading experts in metabolic health. This year's symposium will feature a full day, Thursday, August 15th, dedicated to exploring the connection between mental health and metabolic disease.

Endocrinologist Dr. Roshani Sanghani recently sat down with Doug Reynolds for a compelling podcast interview, discussing her innovative approach to diabetes management and her upcoming participation in the LowCarbUSA 9th Annual San Diego Symposium for Metabolic Health from August 15-18. Dr. Roshani, who has become a leading voice in the field of endocrinology, shares her profound journey and introduces her new book, Turn around Diabetes: The Step-by-Step Guide to Navigate Type 2 (and Type 1) Diabetes with Less Medication.

A Transformative Approach to Endocrinology

Dr. Roshani's medical career began in Mumbai, India, where she completed her medical degree before moving to the United States. She is board-certified in internal medicine, endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism. Her practice evolved significantly during the pandemic, transitioning to a 100% virtual model, which she continues to implement successfully.

"I've always been interested in the mind-body connection," she explains. "Endocrinology became a natural space for me because hormones directly link our thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations. Helping that system stay in balance through mindfulness, lifestyle changes, and medication when needed became my passion."

Turning Diabetes Management on Its Head

Her shift towards a lifestyle-first practice was catalyzed by a patient in Mumbai who was struggling with uncontrolled diabetes. "This patient was labeled non-compliant because he refused insulin. Instead of ending the relationship, I suggested he reduce his carbohydrate intake. A year later, he was well-managed with just one tablet," she recounts. This experience ignited her journey toward emphasizing lifestyle changes over medication.

Her approach focuses on empowering patients through motivational interviewing, a technique that encourages patients to discover their own motivations for change. "Patients come to us because they want to get better, not stay sick. Motivational interviewing flips the model from compliance to empowerment, helping patients make sustainable changes," she says.

An Advocate for Behavioral Change

Dr. Roshani's upcoming book, "Turn Around Diabetes," explores the behavioral aspects of managing diabetes. She emphasizes the importance of addressing psychological barriers and equipping patients with strategies to overcome them. "This book is meant to be a companion for anyone with diabetes, aiming to prevent diabetes, or seeking a healthier lifestyle. It's about overcoming obstacles in nutrition, sleep, stress management, and exercise," she explains.

Using the analogy of a "lifestyle car," she describes how nutrition, sleep, stress management, and exercise are the four wheels that keep us moving forward. "Life is dynamic, and our journey will have its ups and downs. It's about continuous adaptation and navigating through challenges," she notes.

Joining Forces with LowCarbUSA

Dr. Roshani is thrilled to be a speaker at the upcoming LowCarbUSA Symposium. "I'm excited to meet everyone in person and share insights on how behavioral change can significantly impact diabetes management," she says. Her talk promises to be a highlight, given her reputation for delivering engaging and informative presentations. Doug praised her contributions, noting, "One of the best talks we've had was by Dr. Roshani. Her ability to prepare engaging content and provide deep insights is unmatched. We're looking forward to her talk next month."

Listen to the full podcast interview to gain deeper insights into her approach and philosophy. Her new book, "Turn Around Diabetes," will be available at the LowCarbUSA Symposium, providing attendees with practical strategies to navigate diabetes with less medication.

In an insightful interview conducted by LowCarbUSA® co-founder Pam Devine, Dr. Georgia Ede, MD, shared profound insights from her new book, "Change Your Diet, Change Your Mind," and highlighted the significance of metabolic psychiatry. Dr. Ede, a Harvard-trained psychiatrist with extensive experience in nutrition, brain metabolism, and mental health, will be a key presenter at the upcoming LowCarbUSA 9th Annual San Diego Symposium for Metabolic Health, taking place from August 15-18, 2024.

Pam Devine expressed her excitement about her participation, recalling their first collaboration in 2017. Dr. Ede emphasized the unique atmosphere of the LowCarbUSA® conferences, describing them as "science for the people." She praised the efforts of Doug Reynolds and Pam Devine in creating a warm and welcoming environment. According to Dr. Ede, "Every conference has a different feel, and this particular conference has a really nice down-to-earth, people-focused feel. It's science for the people."

Join Us at the Symposium in San Diego, August 15-18

This podcast episode is just a glimpse of the comprehensive, science-backed health insights Dr. Ede will share at the 9th Annual San Diego Symposium for Metabolic Health, August 15-18. Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge and interact with leading experts in metabolic health. This year's symposium will feature a full day, Thursday, August 15th, dedicated to exploring the connection between mental health and metabolic disease.

Focus on Metabolic Psychiatry

One standout feature of this year's conference is the dedication of an entire day to metabolic psychiatry on August 15th. Dr. Ede noted the explosion of research in the field and the quantum leap it represents for psychiatry. "The brain matters," she stated, highlighting developments in treating mental health conditions through metabolic interventions.

Addressing the limitations of conventional psychiatry, she remarked, "We have not been thinking about root causes. Metabolic psychiatry looks at the metabolic root causes, the drivers, the underlying forces that are damaging and destabilizing the brain." She pointed out that the traditional approach of treating mental health conditions as lifelong chemical imbalances requiring medication is being challenged by new findings in metabolic psychiatry.

Debunking Dietary Myths

Dr. Ede debunked common dietary myths, such as the belief that oatmeal is a brain-healthy breakfast. She shared a case from her book where a physician's blood sugar spiked dangerously after consuming oatmeal, underscoring the need for a fundamental shift in dietary recommendations. "If you want real change to your mental health, you need to fundamentally restructure your diet from the ground up in ways that make biological sense," she stated. "Base your diet on science, not wishful thinking and wild guesses."

Importance of Nutrient-Rich Foods

She emphasized the importance of nutrient-rich foods that provide the essential building blocks for brain health. "The brain needs nutrients. All food is about parts and energy. We need the right parts to build cells, including brain cells, and we need to fuel those cells sustainably." Essential nutrients include amino acids, fats, vitamins, and minerals, which are often lacking in typical modern diets. "Most of what we're eating now is not nourishing or energizing our brain properly. In fact, it's damaging the brain," she added.

One major culprit in this dietary crisis is the widespread consumption of vegetable oils. "Vegetable oils are extraordinarily high in Omega-6 fatty acid called linoleic acid," she noted. "Over the past 60 years, our intake of linoleic acid has increased significantly, and it's accumulating in our body fat and brain, causing oxidative stress and inflammation." This leads to brain damage over time.

She highlighted the importance of choosing foods that support brain health by providing necessary nutrients without causing harmful spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels. She asserted, "Animal-based foods, rich in essential nutrients and low in carbohydrates, are key to this approach."

Dr. Ede also discussed the concept of "quiet diets" featured in her book, which include variations like quiet paleo, quiet keto, and quiet carnivore diets. These diets emphasize low-carbohydrate and ketogenic principles to reduce metabolic stress on the brain. "The more sugary your diet is, the harder it can become for your brain to use that sugar for energy," she explained. This can lead to insulin resistance, making it difficult for the brain to process glucose effectively.

Balancing Brain Chemistry

She expanded on this, explaining how the brain processes glucose and the critical role of insulin. "The brain doesn't need insulin to let the glucose in; it needs insulin to process the glucose once it comes in," she explained. Without adequate insulin, the brain, despite being flooded with glucose, cannot utilize it effectively, leading to a paradoxical situation where the brain is both overwhelmed with glucose and starving for energy.

This disruption in brain chemistry can lead to severe mental health issues. "If you want to balance your brain chemistry, one of the most effective ways to do that is to unbalance your diet," she stated. Lowering carbohydrate intake, particularly to ketogenic levels, can significantly improve brain function by stabilizing glucose and insulin levels and providing ketones as an alternative energy source.

Dr. Ede also discussed the balance between glutamate and GABA, the brain's primary neurotransmitters. "Glutamate is the gas pedal, and GABA is the brake pedal," she explained. The balance between these neurotransmitters determines the brain's activity level, and eating refined carbohydrates and vegetable oils can profoundly disrupt this balance, leading to overstimulation and mental health issues. "If you're eating these refined carbohydrates and vegetable oils, you're getting all this inflammation and oxidative stress," she said. "The inflammation and oxidative stress throw this system profoundly out of balance."

The interview concluded with Pam Devine highlighting the importance of attending the LowCarbUSA Symposium in person. Dr. Ede echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the unique benefits of in-person conferences. "It's a completely different experience," she said. "You'll meet other people, make lasting connections, and leave feeling energized and more knowledgeable." She encouraged people to take advantage of this opportunity to learn from experts and immerse themselves in the latest research on metabolic health.

LowCarbUSA co-founders Doug Reynolds and Pam Devine recently sat down with Dr. Erin Bellamy, a ketogenic specialist and metabolic health practitioner, for an illuminating podcast episode. Dr. Bellamy, who holds a PhD in Psychology from the University of East London and an MSc in psychiatric research from King's College London, brings a wealth of experience in using ketogenic metabolic therapy to improve mental health.

A Journey into Ketogenic Diets and Mental Health

Dr. Bellamy began the conversation by sharing her journey into the field of ketogenic diets and mental health. Her interest was sparked during her time working in psychiatric inpatient units, where she noticed a connection between diet and mental well-being. "I always had an interest in nutrition and diets," she explained, recounting her early research on eating disorders and her personal struggles with weight.

Her curiosity led her to explore the impact of low carbohydrate diets on type 2 diabetes and subsequently on mental health. She recalled discovering a 1965 study on the ketogenic diet and schizophrenia, which demonstrated significant improvements in patients' symptoms. This study ignited her passion for investigating the potential of ketogenic diets to support mental health, ultimately leading to her PhD research.

Pam highlighted the burgeoning interest in this field and the importance of collaboration among researchers and practitioners. Erin echoed this sentiment, expressing her excitement about the growing momentum in the field of metabolic psychiatry. "It's mind-boggling to me that we are actually building a little bit of momentum," she said. "We might actually get somewhere."

The Foundational Role of Nutrition

Throughout the interview, Erin emphasized the foundational role of nutrition in mental health. She likened metabolic health to a pyramid, with stable blood sugar levels, good sleep, and strong social connections forming the base. "You need a strong, healthy foundation," she stressed. Only after solidifying this foundation should individuals consider other interventions, such as hormonal testing or specialized therapies.

One of the most impactful insights she shared was the transformative effect of nutritional ketosis on mental resilience. "Once you have somebody on a ketogenic diet for a while, they start to feel that kind of Zen feeling and sense of calm," she observed. This newfound stability enables individuals to effectively utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and other therapeutic tools. "It seems like through nutritional ketosis, people seem to have a bit more buffer space," she added.

Erin's approach underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of mental health conditions. Her work demonstrates the potential of ketogenic diets to not only improve physical health but also to provide a foundation for mental well-being. As the field of metabolic psychiatry continues to grow, her insights offer a promising perspective on the integration of nutrition and mental health.

Pam shared an anecdote highlighting the profound impact of metabolic health on anxiety. She recounted a story about someone who had a severe fear of bees, which subsided once they achieved metabolic health through ketosis. This led to a deeper discussion about the physiological and hormonal changes brought about by ketosis. "The really cool thing about ketones is they have lots of different roles," Erin explained. "One of them is their anti-inflammatory properties, and another is that they are anxiolytic, meaning they reduce anxiety in the body."

Qualitative Research on Ketogenic Therapy for Depression

Erin also discussed her recent research, which focuses on the qualitative experiences of individuals using ketogenic metabolic therapy for depression. Her study revealed that those with higher levels of depressive symptoms found it easier to adhere to the ketogenic diet and reported significant improvements in self-esteem, motivation, and overall outlook on life. "One participant said he had a renewed sense of meaning and purpose in life," she shared, highlighting the transformative potential of the diet.

Doug noted the importance of these personal stories in convincing others to try ketogenic metabolic therapy, recounting a Symposium for Metabolic Health held in Boca Raton back in 2020 when Christopher Palmer MD, a Harvard psychiatrist, delivered a powerful presentation where he described a case of a patient with schizophrenia.

Palmer went into great detail explaining how traumatic the person's life was beforehand, and then told the story of how the patient used a ketogenic diet to effectively put his schizophrenia into remission. "No meds, functioning as a regular person in society," Doug recounted. "And I'm even choking up now with that," he said. "It was amazing. And everybody in attendance just sat there and looked at each other. I think everybody had a lump in their throat. I had to kick off the Q&A session after that, and I couldn't speak." Doug continued, "What you're doing, Erin, relating all of these other anecdotes and these people's experiences, I think that's what's going to convince people that this is something that's worth trying much more than somebody giving them the physiology of it behind it – This is how different your life can be. I think that's huge."

The Importance of Proper Medical Supervision

Erin concluded by emphasizing the importance of proper medical supervision for individuals on psychiatric medications who wish to try the ketogenic diet. She advised working closely with a knowledgeable professional to ensure safe medication adjustments and overall well-being.

Accreditation and Ethical Standards of The SMHP

In the podcast, Erin emphasized the value of her accreditation as a Metabolic Health Practitioner (MHP) through the Society of Metabolic Health Practitioners (The SMHP™). She noted that prior to The SMHP, there was no international consensus on guidelines for therapeutic carbohydrate restriction or ethics in the field. She stressed the importance of having a governing body like The SMHP that works to establish clinical guidelines, ethics, and scope of practice. This helps ensure MHPs are providing safe and beneficial care to clients. She appreciates being part of a like-minded group of practitioners who have access to science backed information from a trusted organization. As a chartered psychologist, under the jurisdiction of the British Psychological Society, she is governed by ethical standards through her professional body. She sees The SMHP membership as complementing this, allowing her metabolic health work to be backed by a trusted society.

Access the full podcast interview here.

9th Annual San Diego Symposium for Metabolic Health

The 9th Annual San Diego Symposium for Metabolic Health will be held August 15-18. Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge and interact with leading experts in metabolic health. This year's symposium will feature a full day, Thursday, August 15th, dedicated to exploring the connection between mental health and metabolic disease. Learn more and register here.

Join us for an enlightening episode of the LowCarbUSA® podcast, where host Doug Reynolds sits down with Dr. Paul Mason, a distinguished sports and exercise medicine physician, to discuss the nuances of blood test interpretation and preview the upcoming LowCarbUSA® 9th Annual San Diego Symposium for Metabolic Health, to be held August 15-18.

Meet Dr. Paul Mason

Dr. Mason uses an evidence-based approach to challenge conventional medical wisdom on topics such as saturated fat, cholesterol, dietary fiber, and sun exposure. He has authored a chapter on nutrition in the textbook Clinical Sports Medicine and is actively involved in curriculum development and teaching within the Australasian College of Sports and Exercise Medicine. His approach to managing complex medical conditions spans patients from the general public to elite athletes, including the Australian Olympic rowing team.

Revolutionizing Blood Test Interpretation

In the podcast, he offers profound insights into the often misunderstood realm of blood tests. "The concept of having biomarkers that reflect our health is a very good one," he explains, "but the trouble is, some of them are more reliable than others, and sometimes the reference intervals are completely out of whack." He emphasizes the need to interpret blood test results through the lens of optimal health rather than population averages and he believes reference intervals should be set using data on longevity. "The people who take statins whose cholesterol actually lowers the most actually have the worst survival," he noted, highlighting issues with overly aggressive cholesterol lowering.

He went on to explain, "Every blood panel I do is actually personalized to their history." He also discussed the complexities of evaluating markers like ferritin and the importance of considering inflammation. His meticulous and systematic approach ensures that each patient receives a nuanced and accurate health evaluation.

Optimizing Health for Longevity

Dr. Mason advocates for using all-cause mortality data to set health benchmarks, stating, "My favorite outcome in science is mortality. And that's because you can't fudge it. In terms of clinical outcomes, nothing beats living. And you can't fake that. You can't have a mischievous researcher come through and manipulate the methodology too much when you've got mortality as an outcome."

Listeners also learned how subtle factors like thyroid function can influence cholesterol levels. He provides valuable insights on the importance of thyroid health and its impact on cholesterol levels. "An underactive thyroid can elevate your triglyceride levels and your cholesterol levels," he explains, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various health markers.

Join Us at the Symposium in San Diego, August 15-18

This podcast episode is just a glimpse of the comprehensive, science-backed health insights Dr. Mason will share at the 9th Annual San Diego Symposium for Metabolic Health, August 15-18. Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge and interact with leading experts in metabolic health. This year's symposium will feature a full day, Thursday, August 15th, dedicated to exploring the connection between mental health and metabolic disease.

An engaging conversation with Jeff Roslund and Ryan Boudreau, the innovative minds behind Dapper Barons, a company at the forefront of crafting near sugar-free liqueurs and zero-sugar ready-to-drink cocktails. In a culture where sugar consumption is a growing concern, especially among those following ketogenic and low-carb diets, Jeff and Ryan shared their journey and passion for revolutionizing the cocktail industry.

Jeff explained the genesis of their idea, "We're the first company to create near sugar-free liqueurs, as well as zero-sugar ready-to-drink cocktails. We knew if we could pull the sugar out of these liqueurs, you could go back to making cocktails the way they're meant to taste."

Their conversation covered the nuances of alcohol's impact on the body, particularly in relation to a ketogenic lifestyle. Jeff clarified a common misconception about the sugar content in spirits. He noted, "All of these products like vodka, gin, tequila, whiskey, are sugar and carbohydrate-free. When you start to get into the flavored spirits, that's where brands are starting to reintroduce sugars." This distinction is crucial for those striving to make healthier choices without giving up on enjoying a drink occasionally.

The conversation touched on the often overlooked aspect of calorie content in alcohol which Ryan stated was normally around 80 to 90 calories per ounce, depending on the base spirit. It emphasizes the point that even if a product is sugar free there are often still calories associated with it which we need to be aware of.

One of the most striking moments of the discussion came when Jeff presented a visual comparison to illustrate the sugar content found in typical liqueurs, comparing it to the sugar in a Hershey's candy bar. "So, you know, you're looking at about 300 grams [of sugar in a bottle of Kahlua]. That's the level that we're talking about." This vivid imagery serves as a stark reminder of the hidden sugars in many popular beverages and the necessity of transparency in labeling, a challenge the alcohol industry continues to face.

You can find out more about getting some to try out on their website and click on the 'Where To Buy' menu option.