The GLP-1 Problem No One Is Talking About: A New Metabolic Approach

The GLP-1 Problem No One Is Talking About: A New Metabolic Approach

Author: Dr. Kara Fitzgerald August 20, 2026 Duration: 56:02
GLP-1 receptor agonists have transformed weight loss and metabolic health—but what are we overlooking? In this episode of New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald is joined by Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj and Dr. Alexis Gonzales to explore the clinical tradeoffs of GLP-1 therapy, including lean muscle preservation, nutrient status, weight regain, and long-term metabolic health.

The conversation also examines SiPore, an engineered silica-based intervention that works locally in the GI tract to slow the breakdown and absorption of carbohydrates and fats. Dr. Fitzgerald and her guests discuss findings from the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled SHINE trial, including outcomes related to A1c, visceral fat, waist circumference, cholesterol, and lean mass.

They also explore how CGMs can reveal post-meal glucose patterns, why muscle preservation matters during weight loss, and how clinicians can support patients transitioning off GLP-1 medications—including those preparing for pregnancy, IVF, or surgery.

Full show notes + references: https://www.drkarafitzgerald.com/fxmed-podcast/

GUEST DETAILS

Sanjay Bhojraj, MD, FACC is an interventional cardiologist and Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine specializing in cardiometabolic health, longevity medicine, and precision cardiovascular prevention.

He’s the founder of the Laguna Institute of Functional Medicine. His programs focus on reversing metabolic dysfunction, improving resilience, and reducing cardiovascular risk through lifestyle optimization and advanced diagnostic testing.

Dr. Alexis Gonzales ("Dr. G") is OvationLab’s Senior Clinical Implementation and AI Specialist, translating breakthrough research into practical clinical workflows, and holds advanced degrees in biochemistry (Saint Mary’s), biotechnology (Johns Hopkins), and naturopathic medicine (Bastyr).

She provides concierge functional-medicine care at her private practice in California—focusing on endometriosis, fertility, PCOS, and menopause—while distilling emerging research into practical frameworks at conferences to make integrative solutions accessible.

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In each episode of Dr. Kara Fitzgerald | New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Longevity, Epigenetics, host Dr. Kara Fitzgerald sits down with leading researchers and clinicians to explore the intricate science that is reshaping our approach to health. These conversations move beyond surface-level advice, digging into the mechanisms of epigenetics and the practical strategies for extending healthspan. You’ll hear detailed discussions on emerging research, with a focus on how our environment and choices influence genetic expression over a lifetime. This podcast is designed for anyone curious about the actionable science behind longevity, from healthcare practitioners seeking clinical insights to informed patients ready to engage deeply with their own wellness. The dialogue is grounded in functional medicine principles, translating complex studies into meaningful information that can be applied both in clinical settings and daily life. Dr. Fitzgerald guides these explorations with a clear and thoughtful perspective, ensuring each episode builds a comprehensive understanding of how modern science is personalizing the path to lasting health. Tune in for a nuanced and evidence-based journey to the forefront of medicine.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

Dr. Kara Fitzgerald | New Frontiers in Functional Medicine, Longevity, Epigenetics
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