#993 This Is Why You’re Tired & Stuck – The Shocking Link Between Stress & Weight Gain with Dr. Melissa Sonners

Ben Azadi takes listeners on an hour-by-hour timeline of what happens inside the body during a 48-hour water fast. From digestion and insulin reduction to autophagy, fat-burning ketosis, stem cell regeneration, and a dopamine reset—this is the ultimate metabolic transformation guide. ⏰ 12–14 Hours: Complete Digestion → Energy is diverted from digestion to cellular repair Insulin Drops → Bloating decreases, energy rises ⏰ 16–17 Hours: Autophagy Begins → Cleans out damaged cells and mitochondria Mitophagy Kicks In → Optimizes fat-burning and anti-aging ⏰ 20 Hours: Ketosis Accelerates → Burning body fat, not dietary fat Mitochondrial Biogenesis → 400% boost in energy production Metabolism Increases → Burn more calories effortlessly ⏰ 24 Hours: Intestinal Stem Cell Activation → Gut healing, reduced leaky gut Surge in Human Growth Hormone 2,000% in men 1,300% in women ⏰ 30 Hours: BDNF Boosts → Brain-derived neurotrophic factor = brain repair and plasticity Mitophagy in Brain Cells → Cognitive clarity, less risk of neurodegeneration ⏰ 36 Hours: Deep Ketosis & Inflammation Drops Fat Burning Peaks → Even while at rest ⏰ 48 Hours: Apoptosis → Clearance of zombie cells (senescent cells) Stem Cell Generation → Tissue regeneration, anti-aging Dopamine Reset → Less emotional eating, reduced sugar/social media addiction 🧭 Join the Challenge:👉 Free 3-Day Burn Fat Challenge 📍 Register: http://www.burnfatchallenge.com 📚 Based on Ben’s new book Metabolic Freedom 🎁 📚 Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today to receive immediate access to a FREE course on metabolism with exclusive interviews from Gary Brecka, Dr Daniel Pompa, Dr Jason Fung, Megan Ramos, Cynthia Thurlow & more. CLICK HERE: https://www.ketokamp.com/free-course 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

In this episode, Ben Azadi breaks down 3 of the best fat-burning foods that contain zero sugar and carbs — and shows how they can help you stop weight gain, build muscle, regulate hormones, and crush cravings. These foods aren’t just filling — they’re metabolic powerhouses that turn your body into a fat-burning machine. 🔥 What You’ll Learn: 🥩 Red Meat: Why fatty cuts like ribeye are anti-inflammatory, muscle-building, and crucial for satiety & thermogenesis 🥚 Eggs (with the yolk): Nature’s multivitamin — loaded with choline, vitamin D, and muscle-activating amino acids 🥑 Avocados: This fatty fruit lowers cortisol, controls blood sugar, and fights belly fat 🧠 Big Takeaways: Metabolism doesn’t slow down with age — muscle loss does. More cholesterol isn’t bad — it fuels your hormones and brain. Stop counting calories. Focus on foods that lower inflammation and support hormone health. Eating clean doesn’t have to be expensive — these foods help you fast longer and eat less frequently. 📣 Join Ben’s FREE 3-Day Fat Burn Challenge: 🔥 Live coaching on the best foods, worst offenders, and how to combine keto & fasting for massive results. 👉 http://www.burnfatchallenge.com 📚 🎁 Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today to receive immediate access to a FREE course on metabolism with exclusive interviews from Gary Brecka, Dr Daniel Pompa, Dr Jason Fung, Megan Ramos, Cynthia Thurlow & more. CLICK HERE: https://www.ketokamp.com/free-course 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

In this episode, Ben breaks down a simple 7-day breakfast protocol designed to reduce visceral fat, balance insulin and cortisol, and jumpstart fat-burning metabolism—without counting calories or relying on willpower. These strategic breakfasts are quick, satisfying, and loaded with nutrients to keep blood sugar stable and energy levels high. You’ll learn how to fuel your body to: ✅ Reduce inflammation ✅ Improve liver function ✅ Boost satiety and fat oxidation ✅ Balance cortisol and insulin ✅ Tap into stored fat for fuel—even while fasting Whether you’re new to metabolic flexibility or stuck on a plateau, this episode provides a simple plan to reboot your morning routine and burn more fat by lunchtime. 🔥 Key Topics Covered: Why visceral fat is dangerous and how to target it The truth about dietary fat and cholesterol (hint: it's not what you've been told) The fat-burning benefits of choline, MCTs, and polyphenols The surprising power of coffee, eggs, olive oil, and fasting What breaks a fast (and what doesn't) How to optimize fat loss with fasted workouts Why red meat, cholesterol, and saturated fat have been wrongly demonized What to do if you hit a fat loss plateau 📌 Resources Mentioned: 🎯 Free 3-Day Fat Burn Challenge: Join here → http://www.burnfatchallenge.com 💥 Use Purity Coffee → http://www.ketokampcoffee.com 🎁 Use code KETOKAMP for 15% off 💧 Organic MCT oil in glass bottle: https://amzn.to/4jIpGxw  🔗 Equip Protein 20% off: http://equipfoods.com/benazadi  📚 🎁 Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today to receive immediate access to a FREE course on metabolism with exclusive interviews from Gary Brecka, Dr Daniel Pompa, Dr Jason Fung, Megan Ramos, Cynthia Thurlow & more. CLICK HERE: https://www.ketokamp.com/free-course 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

🎁 FREE 3-Day Fat Loss Challenge Starts April 28. Learn how to burn fat, balance hormones, and overcome stalls! 👉 Join FREE at: http://burnfatchallenge.com In this episode of the "Metabolic Freedom Podcast," host Ben Azadi converses with Dr. Melissa Sonners about the critical role of nervous system regulation in health and metabolism. Dr. Sonners shares her personal journey of battling chronic stress and health issues, emphasizing how emotional suppression can lead to fatigue and weight gain. They discuss the importance of balancing brainwave states like theta, alpha, and beta for healing and well-being. Dr. Sonners also highlights practical strategies for managing stress, nurturing creativity, and incorporating self-care into daily routines, offering listeners valuable insights into achieving overall health and metabolic freedom. We discuss: Importance of nervous system regulation for overall health and metabolism Impact of chronic stress and emotional suppression on physical health Personal experiences with health challenges related to stress Role of different brainwave states (theta, alpha, beta) in healing and well-being Strategies for managing stress and promoting relaxation Significance of self-care and prioritizing personal well-being Effects of modern lifestyle on nervous system balance Benefits of reading and engaging with literature for mental health Importance of nurturing creativity and imagination in personal development Community support and discussion as tools for personal growth and empowerment LINKS AND RESOURCES: 📚 FREE RESOURCE: https://www.drmelissasonners.com/regulate-your-rhythm 📚 Learn more about The Book Nook: http://drmelissasonners.com/resources 📲 Follow Dr. Melissa Sonners: Instagram: @BeInspiredMama Website: http://drmelissasonners.com 🎁📚 Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today to receive immediate access to a FREE course on metabolism with exclusive interviews from Gary Brecka, Dr Daniel Pompa, Dr Jason Fung, Megan Ramos, Cynthia Thurlow & more. CLICK HERE: https://www.ketokamp.com/free-course 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

In today’s episode, I’m getting real about the fasting mistakes I’ve made over the past 17 years — and how they’ve silently sabotaged fat loss, triggered muscle loss, and even led to cortisol-driven belly fat. You’ll learn: Why fasting without fat adaptation leads to metabolic damage How to become fat adapted in 7 days using the 2-2-2 Rule 🥑 What happens when you fast too much and skip the feast phase Why inflammatory fats like canola oil and fish oil ruin your fasts 😬 How to strike the perfect balance between autophagy and mTOR What really breaks a fast (and how to test your glucose response) The truth about OMAD, long fasts, and why hunger is a good sign 💥 Plus, I answer your top questions: How do you know if you’re fat adapted? What supplements are safe during a fast? What’s the best fasting schedule for fat loss? 🎁 Join my FREE 3-Day Fat Loss Challenge (starts April 28th!) ➡️ http://www.BurnFatChallenge.com 🧪 Get your Keto Mojo for ketone + glucose testing ➡️ http:///http://www.KetokampMachine.com Use code KetoKamp24 for 15% off. 📖 Pre-order my new book Metabolic Freedom and get a free course on metabolism ➡️www.metabolicfreedombook.com

Think all vegetables are healthy? Think again. In this episode, Ben Azadi reveals five "superfood" vegetables that could be sabotaging your weight loss, spiking inflammation, disrupting your hormones, and blocking fat burning. Backed by science and expert interviews, you’ll learn exactly which vegetables to avoid, why they’re harmful, and what to eat instead for maximum fat loss and metabolic health. 🥦 Top 5 Vegetables to AVOID for Fat Loss & Inflammation: Spinach High in oxalates → bind to minerals, damage the gut lining, and deplete glutathione Linked to joint pain, kidney stones, and leaky gut Can spike cortisol, increase belly fat, and cause fatigue Kale Another oxalate-rich leafy green Contains goitrogens that can impair thyroid function (→ slows metabolism) Potential trigger for autoimmune flare-ups Swiss Chard A colorful but sneaky oxalate bomb Depletes B6 and biotin → worsens hormonal balance and fat storage Linked to skin, joint, and metabolism issues Beets High in natural sugars + oxalates = double trouble Increases insulin and glucose spikes Damages mitochondria, slowing your fat-burning capacity Potatoes (white/red) High glycemic load + oxalates = metabolic chaos Promotes water retention, fat storage, and bloating Especially dangerous when eaten with high fat (e.g., cheese & butter) 📣 Special Announcement:  Join the Free 3-Day Burn Fat Challenge  🗓 Starts April 28  💥 Live sessions with Ben on hormone balance, fat burning, and metabolism—based on his new book Metabolic Freedom  🔗 Reserve your free spot here: http://www.BurnFatChallenge.com 📚 🎁 Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today to receive immediate access to a FREE course on metabolism with exclusive interviews from Gary Brecka, Dr Daniel Pompa, Dr Jason Fung, Megan Ramos, Cynthia Thurlow & more. CLICK HERE: https://www.ketokamp.com/free-course 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

What happens if you eat a whole avocado every day for 7 days? Ben Azadi breaks down the day-by-day transformation your body experiences—from fat-burning activation to hormone balance, brain performance, and fat redistribution. Learn how this nutrient-dense fruit can help stabilize blood sugar, flatten your stomach, and improve metabolic flexibility. 🗓️ Timeline of Benefits: Day 1 – Nutrient Activation Mode ✅ Oleic acid reduces inflammation & supports fat burning ✅ 10g fiber improves gut health & satiety ✅ 2x potassium of a banana helps balance sodium, reduce bloat & lower blood pressure ✅ B vitamins & phytosterols support adrenals and lipid profile Day 2 – Electrolyte Reset & Craving Control ✅ Cravings drop as potassium accumulates ✅ Leptin (satiety hormone) up, Ghrelin (hunger hormone) down ✅ Feel leaner, wake up with a flatter stomach Day 3 – Insulin Balance & Fat Adaptation ✅ Monounsaturated fats improve glucose uptake ✅ Reduced post-meal glucose spikes → less insulin needed ✅ Fat burning accelerates & energy stabilizes Day 4 – Mood Upgrade & Brain Boost ✅ Dopamine & serotonin support from B6 & folate ✅ Magnesium enhances sleep and mood ✅ Less anxiety, better focus, smarter food decisions Day 5 – Hormone & Adrenal Rebalance ✅ B5 helps buffer cortisol (anti-stress vitamin) ✅ Cortisol belly begins to shrink ✅ Improved HPA axis communication Day 6 – Fat Loss Acceleration ✅ Significant reduction in visceral belly fat ✅ Improved leptin sensitivity ✅ Less fat storage from insulin spikes Day 7 – Metabolic Momentum ✅ Cravings down, energy up, waistline tighter ✅ Enhanced metabolic flexibility ✅ Glucose control & liver detox improve 📚 Referenced Study: ✅ Journal of Nutrition 2021 RCT – Daily avocado intake reduced visceral fat in women in 12 weeks (http://jn.nutrition.org) 📣 BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Join Ben’s Free 3-Day Fat Loss Challenge 🗓 Starts April 28 🧠 Learn to balance hormones, burn fat, and bust through weight loss stalls 🔗 Sign up here: http://www.BurnFatChallenge.com 🎁 📚 Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today to receive immediate access to a FREE course on metabolism with exclusive interviews from Gary Brecka, Dr Daniel Pompa, Dr Jason Fung, Megan Ramos, Cynthia Thurlow & more. CLICK HERE: https://www.ketokamp.com/free-course 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

📚 🎁  Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today to receive immediate access to a FREE course on metabolism with exclusive interviews from Gary Brecka, Dr Daniel Pompa, Dr Jason Fung, Megan Ramos, Cynthia Thurlow & more. CLICK HERE: http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com ($997 Retail Value For FREE) In this powerful episode, Ben Azadi shares his personal journey and unveils the 5-step protocol he used to eliminate stubborn chest fat (a.k.a. "man boobs")—without surgery, excessive cardio, or gimmicks. 🔑 Key Topics Covered: Why Beer is Estrogenic and how it sabotages testosterone production The hidden hormone disruptors in plastics and microplastics How compound strength training boosts testosterone and melts fat The critical role of deep sleep and Ben’s top hacks (like mouth taping & banana tea) How to activate brown fat through cold plunging and sauna therapy Nutrition tips and the top 5 foods that naturally increase testosterone Thoughts on TRT, hormone testing (Dutch test), and effective sprinting protocols Why slow cardio fails and how to use HIIT for fat loss Resources Mentioned: Download Ben’s free 30-day visceral fat-burning protocol at http://www.targetbellyfat.com Organic dry farm wine 🔗 Learn more: http://www.ketokampwine.com  🔗 Mouth tape:  https://somnifix.com/?ref=3778298&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=goaffpro   use the coupon code KETOKAMP   Trace minerals with boron, zinc and selenium: https://amzn.to/4ljjXQf  DIM: https://amzn.to/4jijega  🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

What if your gut was the secret weapon to burning fat, balancing blood sugar, and unlocking mental clarity? In this episode of the Metabolic Freedom Podcast, I’m joined by one of the most brilliant minds in functional medicine—Dr. Stephen Gundry. You’ve probably heard his name. He’s a world-renowned gut health expert and the author of The Gut Brain Paradox. We go deep into the gut-metabolism connection and talk about how your microbiome could be the key to finally breaking through weight loss plateaus, improving insulin sensitivity, and even lifting brain fog. You’ll learn: Why gut diversity is a non-negotiable for long-term fat loss How butyrate-producing bacteria support metabolic health The truth about fermented foods—and what I personally eat Practical, real-world strategies to improve your gut starting today And yes… how the science of gratitude literally changes your biology Dr. Gundry brought the 🔥 in this conversation—and I know you’re going to walk away empowered and inspired to take control of your health from the inside out. 🎧 Hit play and let’s level up together. Purchase Dr Steven Gundry's new book here: https://amzn.to/4lqH7Ex 📚 🎁 Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today to receive immediate access to a FREE course on metabolism with exclusive interviews from Gary Brecka, Dr Daniel Pompa, Dr Jason Fung, Megan Ramos, Cynthia Thurlow & more. CLICK HERE: https://www.ketokamp.com/free-course 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

📚 🎁  Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today to receive immediate access to a FREE course on metabolism with exclusive interviews from Gary Brecka, Dr Daniel Pompa, Dr Jason Fung, Megan Ramos, Cynthia Thurlow & more. CLICK HERE: http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com ($997 Retail Value For FREE) Is it really possible that just one cup a day of something natural could help you reduce cravings, burn fat, and boost energy—without the risks of Ozempic? In this episode, Ben Azadi reveals five research-backed drinks that can support metabolic health, control appetite, and help you lose fat safely and effectively. What You’ll Learn: ☕ Why medium roast organic coffee can increase fat-burning hormones and reduce belly fat 🍵 How green tea (and matcha) targets visceral fat and boosts calorie burn 🍎 The power of apple cider vinegar to lower blood sugar and reduce liver fat 💧 Why mineral-rich water first thing in the morning crushes cravings 🍋 How ginger lemon water boosts brown fat and improves insulin sensitivity Key Highlights: Studies show that coffee increases metabolic rate up to 13% in lean individuals Green tea catechins + caffeine = potent belly fat shredder ACV before meals or bed = improved glucose, reduced insulin spikes Minerals support mitochondrial health, fasting, and energy levels Ginger + lemon water raises thermogenesis and helps regulate insulin Resources Mentioned: ✅ Get 15% off my favorite clean coffee at 👉 http://ketokampcoffee.com Use code KETOKAMP at checkout. My favorite green tea Pique green tea: https://amzn.to/426KBUU  My favorite mineral supplement http://www.beamminerals.com/ketokamp use the coupon code KETOKAMP Pique Ginger Tea: https://amzn.to/3bbew0l  Grab Ben’s FREE 3-step ebook to lose 10 pounds in 7 days 👉 http://www.burnfatbook.com 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals