The Living Life Well Show:  Reversing Diabetes, Healing the Thyroid, and Optimizing Gut Health

The Living Life Well Show: Reversing Diabetes, Healing the Thyroid, and Optimizing Gut Health

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The Living Life Well Show: Reversing Diabetes, Healing the Thyroid, and Optimizing Gut Health episodes

  • GLP-1s for Pediatric Obesity + Plant-Based Diets: What It Means for Diabetes, Gut Health & Thyroid

    Dr. Jon Skelton breaks down the 310-fold spike in GLP-1 drugs for pediatric obesity and what a new plant-based food study actually reveals about whole-food nutrition and cardiometabolic health.

    Show Notes / Description

    In this episode of The Living Life Well Show, Dr. Jon Skelton dives into two headline-making studies that every parent, physician, and health-conscious adult should understand.

    What we cover:

    1. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists for Pediatric Obesity (Ages 8–11) A retrospective study published in the Journal of Pediatrics analyzed prescribing data from Epic electronic health records covering 3.5 million children. The findings are staggering:

    • GLP-1 prescriptions for obese children aged 8–11 rose from 0.03% in 2019 to 9.3% in 2026 — a 310-fold increase
    • Older children, females, and those from higher socioeconomic backgrounds were more likely to be prescribed these medications
    • Dr. Skelton raises critical questions: What's the long-term endpoint? Are we setting children up for decades of medication dependence instead of addressing root causes through nutrition and lifestyle?
    • 2. Plant-Based Medically Tailored Groceries & Cardiometabolic Outcomes A study published in Preventing Chronic Disease (October 2026) out of Massachusetts General Hospital's Revere Food Pantry:

      • ~68 adult participants (70% women, average age 57, ~80% obese or with comorbidities) received weekly packages of fresh fruits, vegetables, canned beans, nut butters, and whole grains
      • Participants who received 100+ packages over ~2.7 years showed approximately a 3-point decrease in diastolic blood pressure
      • The study had significant limitations: small sample size, no individualized nutrition counseling, no tracking of actual consumption, and unclear whether participants ate other foods simultaneously
      • Key Takeaways:

        • The gap between what physicians know about nutrition and what confers true health is widening — medical school dedicates only a handful of hours to nutrition education
        • Whole-food, plant-based eating can reduce inflammation (high blood sugar, elevated CRP, thyroid antibodies), but it should be short-term and individualized — not a blanket recommendation
        • You can't just say "eat your fruits and veggies" — personalized, disease-specific nutrition guidance matters
        • Always dig into the methodology behind headline-grabbing studies before drawing conclusions
        • About the Show: The Living Life Well Show with Dr. Jon Skelton covers diabetes reversal, thyroid disease, gut health, and how nutrition shapes your overall health. We break down the latest research so you can make informed decisions for yourself and your family.

          Disclaimer: This episode is for entertainment and educational purposes only and is not intended to prevent, diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Always consult a qualified medical professional for your specific concerns.

          Visit us at: livelifewellclinic.com to schedule a free discovery call.

          Keywords / Tags (Spotify & Apple)

          GLP-1, pediatric obesity, weight loss drugs in children, plant-based diet, whole food nutrition, cardiometabolic health, food as medicine, diabetes reversal, nutrition education, blood pressure, inflammation, thyroid health, gut health, pediatric endocrinology, lifestyle medicine, Dr. Jon Skelton, Living Life Well

          19 min
        • Why CGMs Reveal Blood Sugar Patterns A1C Misses | Diabetes Prevention & Metabolic Health

          In this episode of The Living Life Well Show, Dr. Jon Skelton breaks down a landmark study from Diabetes Care showing how continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) reveal blood sugar patterns that fasting glucose and A1C completely miss — even in people without diabetes.

          A1C and fasting glucose have long been the standard tools for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes. But are they telling the whole story? A recent study of 1,356 adults without diabetes found that glucose variability — the spikes, crashes, and daily fluctuations — was associated with a 21–26% higher odds of high blood pressure and dyslipidemia, even when fasting glucose looked normal.

          In this episode, you'll learn:

          - **Why a "normal" A1C doesn't rule out blood sugar issues** — and how glucose variability may be the missing piece in diabetes prevention
          - **How CGMs work** and what they reveal that a single blood draw simply cannot
          - **The study's key findings** on cardiometabolic risk in adults without diabetes — including the significance of time spent above 140 mg/dL
          - **What glucose patterns mean for diabetes remission** and how recognizing patterns can change behavior and lower risk
          - **How thyroid function connects to metabolic health** — and why a thorough thyroid evaluation matters when glucose, cholesterol, or weight feel "off"
          - **The gut health link** — how low levels of Akkermansia and Faecalibacterium may contribute to insulin resistance, leaky gut, and blood sugar swings
          - **Study limitations** explained honestly — cross-sectional design, short monitoring window, demographic constraints, and why causation isn't proven
          - **Dr. Skelton's practical approach** to using a CGM as an educational tool: observe, indulge, then optimize — and why no single lab value defines your health

          Whether you've been diagnosed with diabetes, are working toward diabetes remission, or simply want to understand your metabolic health on a deeper level, this episode explains why blood sugar patterns matter far more than any single number — and how CGMs, thyroid testing, and gut health all fit into the bigger picture.

          **Keywords:** diabetes, blood sugar, CGMs, continuous glucose monitors, A1C, glucose variability, metabolic health, diabetes prevention, diabetes remission, cardiometabolic risk, thyroid health, gut health, insulin resistance, insulin sensitivity, blood sugar patterns, hemoglobin A1C, fasting glucose, type 2 diabetes, blood sugar spikes, glucose monitoring

          **🔗 Mentioned in this episode:**
          - Study: *"Beyond Traditional Glycemic Measures: CGM Glycemic Profiles Reveal Associations With Cardiometabolic Risks in Individuals Without Diabetes"* — published in *Diabetes Care*
          - Schedule a free 20-minute discovery call: https://livelifewellclinic.com/schedule-an-appointment/
          - Learn more: https://livelifewellclinic.com/

          **⚠️ Disclaimer:** This episode is for entertainment and educational purposes only. It is not meant to prevent, diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Always consult a qualified medical professional for your specific concerns.

           

          19 min
        • Do GLP-1s Actually Reverse Diabetes? The Truth About Diabetes Remission

          Are GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and tirzepatide actually reversing Type 2 diabetes—or just putting it on pause? In this episode of The Living Life Well Show, Dr. Jon Skelton breaks down the latest research on GLP-1s and diabetes remission, including a landmark 2025 Lancet study of over 14,000 patients and the SURPASS trials on tirzepatide.

          What you'll learn:

          • How "diabetes remission" is defined—and why the definition matters
          • The real remission rates: from 5.8% (strict, medication-free) to 18.3% (broadest definition)
          • How long remission actually lasts once you stop a GLP-1 (hint: it's measured in months, not years)
          • Who is most likely to achieve remission—and who is not
          • Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) vs. semaglutide (Ozempic): what the SURPASS trials revealed
          • What happens to your A1C and weight when you stop a GLP-1
          • Why GLP-1s can be a powerful kickstart—but not a standalone solution
          • The role of visceral fat, gut health, and thyroid function in metabolic health
          • Key terms & topics: GLP-1 medications, Type 2 diabetes remission, hemoglobin A1C, tirzepatide, semaglutide, Ozempic, Mounjaro, insulin resistance, visceral fat, weight loss, metabolic health, SURPASS trials, Lancet 2025 study, diabetes reversal

            Episode Chapters:

            • 0:00 — Introduction
            • 0:28 — What the 2025 Lancet Study Found
            • 1:19 — How Remission Is Defined
            • 2:51 — Who Actually Achieves Remission?
            • 6:36 — Tirzepatide & the SURPASS Trials
            • 10:39 — What Happens When You Stop a GLP-1
            • 15:00 — More Than Just A1C: The Bigger Picture
            • 18:05 — GLP-1s as a Kickstart, Not a Crutch
            • 19:49 — How to Get Help
            • Ready to take the next step? Schedule a free discovery call with the Live Life Well Clinic at https://livelifewellclinic.com/

              Learn more about the Metabolic Reset Course:  Take me to the Metabolic Reset

              If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and share it with someone who might benefit.

              Disclaimer: This podcast is for entertainment and educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Please consult a qualified medical professional for your specific needs.

              23 min
            • Blood Sugar, Thyroid & Gut Health: The Nutrition Advice Your Doctor Should Be Giving You

              In this episode of The Living Life Well Show, Dr. Jon Skelton, MD breaks down Texas's groundbreaking legislation (Senate Bill 25) requiring nutrition education for medical professionals — and why it matters for your health. Did you know the average physician receives just 1.2 hours of nutrition education during all four years of medical school? That's changing. Texas is leading a national movement, alongside Secretary Kennedy's pledge, to require 40 hours of nutritional education in medical schools. In this episode, Dr. Skelton explains what this means for you and your doctor visits.

              What You'll Learn:

              >- Why Texas passed Senate Bill 25 and what the nutrition advisory committee is doing

              > - How the 1.2-hour nutrition education gap affects your medical care

              > - What the 40-hour medical school pledge means for future physicians

              > - Actionable nutrition tips for diabetes, gut health, and thyroid conditions:

              > - How to reduce sugar and increase fiber (and where to shop in the grocery store)

              > - Why you should avoid seed oils and how to choose the right cooking oils

              > - The truth about iodine, sea salt, and thyroid health

              > - How GLP-1 patients can benefit from better nutritional guidance

              > - The "Nutrition Communication for Diabetes Prevention" CME course from UT Austin

              Ready to take control of your health?Visit https://livelifewellclinic.com/ to schedule a discovery call or enroll in the Metabolic Reset or Forty Days courses.

              > > **Keywords:** blood sugar, diabetes, thyroid health, gut health, nutrition, seed oils, iodine, sea salt, fiber, sugar, GLP-1, metabolic syndrome, A1C, insulin resistance, cooking oils, thyroid medication, Dr. Jon Skelton, Live Life Well Clinic

              19 min
            • Can Stem Cells Cure Both Type 1 & 2 Diabetes? The New Transplant That Can End Insulin Shots

              Could your own cells cure your diabetes? In this episode of The Living Life Well Show, we dive into a groundbreaking 2025 study on autologous stem cell transplants — a process that takes your own skin cells, reprograms them into insulin-producing beta islet cells, and puts them back into your body. The result? Type 1 and insulin-dependent Type 2 diabetics going insulin-free for the first time — without the need for immunosuppressive drugs. We break down how this cutting-edge therapy works, who qualifies, the risks and rewards, and what it means for the future of diabetes treatment.

              In this episode:

              What autologous stem cell transplantation is and how it differs from traditional organ transplants

              How stem cells are reprogrammed into beta islet cells using small molecules (including vitamin C and valproic acid)

              The 1-year study results showing patients still producing their own insulin Who qualifies: early-stage Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics (5–10 years)

              Potential risks including telomere shortening and cancer concerns

              Why lifestyle and diet still matter after treatment How to enroll in ongoing clinical trials

              Resources & Links:

              Vertex Pharmaceuticals clinical trial (VX-880): clinicaltrials.gov

              Breakthrough T1D: breakthrought1d.org

              Schedule a free discovery call: livelifewellclinic.com

              Learn about our Metabolic Reset program:  Click Here for the Metabolic Reset Course

              Keywords: stem cell transplant, diabetes, Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, insulin-free, autologous transplant, beta islet cells, VX-880, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, immunosuppressive drugs, clinical trials, metabolic health, Living Life Well Clinic, Metabolic Reset

              16 min
            • The Hidden Truth About Zero-Sugar Foods & Diabetes Risk (Splenda, Stevia & Kidney Health Explained)

              Dr. Jon Skelton breaks down what "zero sugar" and "low-fat" labels are really hiding — and why they may be fueling insulin resistance, gut damage, and kidney disease.

              In this episode:

              Why the 1980s-90s low-fat craze backfired and fueled the type 2 diabetes epidemic

              A new meta-analysis on artificial sweeteners (Splenda, aspartame, saccharin) and their impact on insulin, A1C, and gut microbiome health

              Why "natural" sweeteners like stevia, monk fruit, and coconut sugar still trigger a pancreatic response

              The surprising link between diabetes and the 36 million Americans with chronic kidney disease

              Why standard GFR and lab ranges may be masking early kidney distress — and what to check instead (hint: urine albumin)

              How to read labels and spot hidden sugar mimickers If you or a loved one are managing diabetes, gut issues, or kidney concerns, this episode is essential listening.

              Learn more or schedule a free discovery call at https://livelifewellclinic.com/schedule-an-appointment/, or get started with the Click Here for the Metabolic Reset Course.

              The Living Life Well Show — hosted by Dr. Jon Skelton. For entertainment and educational purposes only; not a substitute for professional medical advice.

              20 min
            • What to Eat for Gut Health: Foods, Timing, and Fermentation Explained | The Living Life Well Show

              n this episode of The Living Life Well Show, Dr. Jon Skelton breaks down exactly what to eat — and how and when to eat it — to support a healthy gut microbiome, reduce inflammation, and heal your gut lining.

              What You'll Learn:

              • The #1 predictor of microbiome diversity (hint: aim for 30 plant varieties per week)
              • Why fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha are gut health staples
              • The best polyphenol-rich foods: berries, green tea, olive oil, dark chocolate (70%+), and coffee
              • How to choose herbs and spices for maximum benefit (fresh > single-source > blended)
              • Omega-3 sources that reduce gut inflammation — including options for non-seafood eaters
              • The surprising power of cooked and cooled potatoes and rice (resistant starch & butyrate)
              • Why how you eat matters: slowing down, limiting fluids during meals, and eating order
              • The 2–3 hour pre-bedtime eating cutoff and why your gut needs rest to heal
              • When a probiotic or prebiotic supplement may actually be necessary
              • Why the Mediterranean diet ties gut health, thyroid, and blood sugar together
              • Resources Mentioned:

                • Metabolic Reset Course —  Click Here to Learn More
                • Free 20-minute discovery call with Dr. Skelton — Click Here to Schedule
                • Keywords: gut health, microbiome, fermented foods, probiotics, prebiotics, resistant starch, polyphenols, Mediterranean diet, gut inflammation, butyrate, fiber, gut healing

                  The Living Life Well Show is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any condition. Always consult a qualified medical professional.

                  26 min
                • Eat for Your Thyroid: The Essential Nutrients That Support Thyroid Function & Reduce Inflammation

                  Are you eating in a way that supports your thyroid? In this episode of The Living Life Well Show, we dive into one of the most requested topics — what to eat when you have thyroid disease.

                  Whether you're dealing with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto's, or Graves' disease, the food you eat plays a powerful role in thyroid hormone production, conversion, and inflammation control.

                  In this episode, you'll learn:

                  • How the thyroid works and why T4-to-T3 conversion matters
                  • Why protein is foundational for thyroid hormone transport
                  • The best food sources of selenium, zinc, and iodine — and how much you actually need
                  • Why iodine is a "Goldilocks" nutrient (too much or too little causes problems)
                  • The truth about wild-caught vs. farmed fish and cage-free eggs
                  • How blood sugar control and gut health are directly tied to thyroid function
                  • When to supplement vs. getting nutrients from whole foods
                  • Top thyroid-supportive foods mentioned:

                    • Eggs & Greek yogurt
                    • Salmon, sardines, trout & yellowfin tuna
                    • Brazil nuts (selenium powerhouse)
                    • Pumpkin seeds & legumes (zinc)
                    • Seaweed & iodized salt (iodine)
                    • Turkey
                    • Key takeaway: Thyroid health isn't just about medication — it's about creating the right nutritional environment for your body to produce and convert thyroid hormones effectively.

                      🔗 Ready to balance your thyroid and reset your metabolism? Join our Metabolic Reset program — mentioned in this episode — to get personalized support for blood sugar regulation and thyroid health.  Click Here for the Metabolic Reset Course

                      Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone managing thyroid disease.

                      #ThyroidHealth #Hypothyroidism #Hashimotos #NutritionForThyroid #LivingLifeWell #ThyroidDiet #FunctionalNutrition #WholeFoods #MetabolicHealth

                      20 min
                    • What should I eat for...Diabetes, Insulin Resistance, High Blood Sugar, Weight Loss

                      Managing diabetes starts with what's on your plate — but with so much conflicting advice online, it's hard to know where to begin.

                      In this episode, Dr. Jon Skelton kicks off a new series called What Should I Eat? with a deep dive into nutrition for diabetes and insulin resistance.

                      In this episode, you'll learn:

                      The #1 breakfast rule for diabetics (and why cereal is the enemy)

                      Can diabetics eat fruit? Yes — here's how to do it right The fructose chart explained: berries vs. bananas vs. pineapple

                      Why fiber order at meals matters more than you think Low-carb fast food survival guide: Chipotle, Wendy's, burger joints & chicken places

                      The hidden sugar bomb in your condiments and salad dressings Best snacks to avoid glucose spikes (beef jerky, nuts, seeds & more) Rice and potatoes: which varieties are least harmful — and when to avoid them entirely

                      Oatmeal and sourdough bread: the truth for diabetics

                      Artificial sweeteners and alcohol: why they're worse than you think

                      How to use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to personalize your diet

                      The simple meal formula: Fiber first → Protein second → Carbs last

                      Resources mentioned: Metabolic Reset Course: Metabolic Reset course Link

                      Link to Live Life Well Clinic Appointment

                      Continuous glucose monitors: Dexcom, Freestyle Libre, Stelo

                      Keywords: diabetes diet, insulin resistance, blood sugar, A1C reduction, low carb, diabetic meal plan, continuous glucose monitor, what to eat for diabetes, glycemic index, fructose chart, metabolic reset, Dr. Jon Skelton, Living Life Well

                      26 min
                    • Beginner HIIT Essentials: The Metabolic 3 Workout Guide

                      Episode Title: Beginner HIIT Essentials: The Metabolic 3 Workout Guide

                      Description: Ready to start HIIT but not sure where to begin? In this episode of The Living Life Well Show, Dr. Jon Skelton breaks down everything beginners need to know before jumping into high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Learn the three foundational exercises that build the strength and stamina required for a safe, effective HIIT workout — no equipment needed.

                      In This Episode: What HIIT is and why it's effective for beginners

                      The 3 essential exercises you need to master before starting HIIT: squats, push-ups, and planks

                      Step-by-step progressions for each exercise (from easiest to most advanced) How to know when you're ready to graduate to a full HIIT workout

                      The Metabolic 3 Beginner HIIT Workout — a 15–20 minute, bodyweight-only routine you can do at home How to structure your intervals, rest periods, and rounds Why "high intensity" is always relative to your fitness level

                      Key Takeaways: Master 10 sit-to-stand squats, 10 push-ups, and a 30-second plank before starting HIIT Beginners should use 15–30 second intervals with equal or double rest time

                      The full HIIT guide includes 3 rounds targeting lower body, upper body, and core

                      Modifications are available for every fitness level — anyone can do HIIT

                      Free Download: Get the Metabolic 3 Quick Start Guide — a free beginner HIIT workout guide referenced in this episode. Click Here to Get the Guide 

                      Keywords: beginner HIIT workout, high intensity interval training for beginners, bodyweight HIIT at home, how to start HIIT, metabolic workout guide, sit to stand squats, beginner push-ups, plank workout, HIIT modifications, Living Life Well show, Dr. Jon Skelton, no equipment workout, interval training for beginners, home workout routine Connect & Learn More:

                      Website: livelifewellclinic.com

                      Disclaimer: This episode is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified medical professional before beginning any new exercise program.

                      21 min

                    About The Living Life Well Show: Reversing Diabetes, Healing the Thyroid, and Optimizing Gut Health

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                    The Living Life Well Show: Reversing Diabetes, Healing the Thyroid, and Optimizing Gut Health