Ep. 561 Why Eating Less Isn’t Working – The Real Root Causes of Obesity & Metabolic Disease with Dr. Jason Fung | Menopause & Metabolic Health

Ep. 561 Why Eating Less Isn’t Working – The Real Root Causes of Obesity & Metabolic Disease with Dr. Jason Fung | Menopause & Metabolic Health

Author: Everyday Wellness™ February 28, 2026 Duration: 1:06:12
I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Jason Fung today. He is a trained nephrologist and world-leading expert on intermittent fasting and metabolic health. He has authored multiple books, including the New York Times best-seller, The Obesity Code, The Diabetes Code, and, more recently, The Hunger Code.   In our conversation today, we unpack the obsessive focus on the calories-in, calories-out model, which is neither practical nor effective. We explore the root causes behind the narrow-minded thinking that calories alone drive obesity, differences between types of hunger and conditioned responses, how hormones affect other hormones, and lessons about GLP-1s. We examine the critical importance of fiber and protein, and offer clarity around carbohydrates. We also cover the impact of meal timing, sleep, and circadian biology, the fat thermostat and sympathetic tone, nutrition, stress, and mindful eating, and dive into the issue of ultra-processed foods. Join us for an insightful conversation that challenges conventional wisdom and offers a nuanced and sustainable approach to understanding hunger, metabolism, and long-term health. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: “Calories in, calories out” framework is technically correct, but practically useless How the homeostatic, hedonic, and conditioned hunger types differ Dr. Fung shares his take on GLP-1 medications How fiber stimulates natural GLP-1 production Processed and natural carbohydrates produce vastly different glucose and insulin responses. Avoid eating late-night meals! Complex relationship between hunger, hormonal regulation, and sleep quality Hormones that drive body fat regulation  How bitter foods suppress appetite and enhance satiety Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow  Cynthia’s Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia’s Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Jason Fung On his website Instagram and YouTube Dr. Fung’s latest book, The Hunger Code, will come out in March. Pre-order on Amazon!

Navigating the changes that come with midlife can feel isolating, but it doesn't have to be a solo journey. Everyday Wellness: Midlife Hormones, Menopause, and Science for Women 35+ is a conversation grounded in evidence and empathy. Host Cynthia Thurlow brings her perspective as a nurse practitioner and a woman in this life stage, translating complex science into practical strategies. With over 25 years in health and wellness, including a widely-viewed TEDx talk on intermittent fasting, she connects the dots between hormones, metabolism, and long-term vitality. This podcast delves into the nuanced realities of perimenopause and beyond, moving past generic advice to explore personalized nutrition, sustainable fitness for changing bodies, and managing sleep and stress. It’s a resource for anyone seeking to understand the *why* behind their symptoms and find actionable steps that fit into a real, busy life. The discussions are direct, informed by the latest research, and focused on empowering women to advocate for their own health. Tune in for honest dialogues that replace confusion with clarity and foster a sense of community around shared experiences.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Everyday Wellness: Midlife Hormones, Menopause, and Science for Women 35+
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