#1056 Addiction Isn’t What You Think – The Surprising Root Cause (And How Doug Bopst Beat It)

In this episode, Ben Azadi breaks down why doing OMAD (One Meal a Day) long-term can slow your metabolism, disrupt hormones, and stall fat loss. He explains how chronic caloric restriction can cause thyroid suppression, muscle loss, and elevated cortisol, leading to fat gain—especially around the belly. 🔑 What You’ll Learn: Why OMAD works short-term but fails long-term Signs of metabolic adaptation and hormonal imbalance The importance of protein intake and muscle preservation How to implement Metabolic Switching (16:8, 18:6, OMAD 1x/week, Feast Day) How to restore leptin sensitivity and avoid weight loss plateaus 📘 Grab Ben’s book + FREE metabolism course:http://metabolicfreedombook.com 🎤 Upcoming live events:http://benazadi.com/events  🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

What does it take to completely rewrite your story? In this powerful episode of the Metabolic Freedom Podcast, Ben Azadi sits down with Doug Bopst—a man who’s walked through the darkest valleys of addiction and incarceration and emerged with a mission to help others reclaim their lives. Doug opens up about the raw, real journey of breaking free from the chains of limiting beliefs and how fitness, purpose, and a strong community became the cornerstones of his recovery. He shares why addiction isn’t just a physical struggle—it’s a spiritual one—and how choosing personal responsibility and chasing small, consistent wins helped him rebuild confidence from the ground up. You’ll also hear Doug’s take on practical fitness for real-life change, why gratitude is a game-changer, and how mindset can make or break your transformation. Whether you're battling your own inner demons or simply craving a deeper sense of purpose, Doug’s story is a reminder that no matter how far off track you feel—you’re never too far gone to make a comeback. 🔥 Key Topics Discussed: Personal journey of overcoming addiction and incarceration. Addiction viewed as a spiritual crisis rather than solely a brain disease. Importance of personal responsibility in recovery. Role of fitness and mindset in transformation. Influence of supportive relationships during recovery. The significance of finding purpose in life post-addiction. Strategies for maintaining recovery, including staying busy and structured. The impact of self-awareness and understanding triggers in overcoming addiction. Celebrating small wins as a method to build confidence and momentum. The balance between fitness as a therapeutic tool and avoiding new forms of addiction. 🔗 Links and Resources: Doug's Website: https://dougbopst.com/ Instagram: instagram.com/dougbopst  Facebook: facebook.com/dougbopst  🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

Ben Azadi breaks down the five daily habits that keep Tom Cruise lean, energized, and youthful at 62. Learn how Cruise uses mobility, HIIT workouts, protein-focused meals, recovery tools, and playful movement to reverse aging and burn fat—plus tips on how to apply these habits to your life. 💡 Topics covered: Morning mobility to activate your nervous system Smart HIIT workouts to boost mitochondria & longevity High-protein, low-carb meals for energy & muscle Anti-aging skincare and cold therapy rituals How play and variety in movement improve motivation 📘 Get Ben’s book Metabolic Freedom + FREE bonus course:http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com 📅 Join Ben’s speaking tour:http://www.benazadi.com/events 📲 Track your progress with WHOOP, Oura Ring, or Apple Watch  WHOOP: https://amzn.to/44uzRB2 Oura Ring: https://ouraring.com/product/rings/oura-ring-4/silver?utm_medium=iac_raf  🧊 Try Ben’s cold plunge: http://www.plunge.com (Code: KetoCamp)📺 Fitness coaching: https://www.youtube.com/@GC3FIT 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

What if the key to surviving critical illness starts long before you ever land in a hospital bed? In this powerful episode of the Metabolic Freedom Podcast, host Ben Azadi sits down with ICU and palliative care physician Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng for a conversation that hits close to home. Drawing from years of experience on the front lines of critical care, Dr. Kwadwo opens up about the real, everyday lifestyle factors that make the biggest difference—long before illness strikes. From the overlooked power of protein and muscle mass to the simple habits of walking, managing stress, building community, and finding purpose, this episode explores what truly helps people stay resilient. Dr. Kwadwo doesn’t just talk theory—he shares real-life ICU stories that show why prevention beats prescription every time. You’ll also hear about his new book, which is all about empowering you to take your health into your own hands—using informed choices and the support of community to stay strong, vibrant, and free. If you’ve ever wondered what actually matters when it comes to long-term health, this episode will change the way you think. 🔥 Key Topics Discussed: Importance of metabolic health and its impact on ICU admissions Role of nutrition and dietary habits in preventing metabolic disorders Significance of protein intake and muscle mass for health and recovery Discussion of the ketogenic diet and its effects on metabolic health Mental health's connection to nutrition and recovery outcomes Quality of hospital food and its implications for patient healing Benefits of regular movement, including walking, for metabolic health Impact of stress management and sleep quality on health outcomes Importance of social connections and community support for well-being The role of purpose in motivating healthy lifestyle choices and overall health 🔗 Links and Resources: 📚 Get Dr Kwadwo's Book Prevention Over Prescription here: https://amzn.to/3TUTlbL 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

In this episode of the Metabolic Freedom Podcast, Ben Azadi breaks down the 3 essential stages of fat loss—and exactly what to eat at each stage to finally lose stubborn belly fat. From lowering insulin and inflammation in Phase 1, to building lean muscle in Phase 2, and optimizing mitochondrial function with powerful biohacks in Phase 3—Ben delivers a complete roadmap to sustainable fat loss. You’ll learn the best fat-burning foods, the power of intermittent fasting, movement tips, and his favorite tools like cold plunges, sauna, and apple cider vinegar. Electrolytes: Redmond Relight-  http:www.ketokampsalt.com  coupon  code is "AZADI" for 10% off Keto Chow-  https://amzn.to/44rGF2d  Ultima -https://amzn.to/4lTXjgU  LMNT - DrinkLMNT.com/KetoKamp  Magnesium: Upgraded Formulas: https://upgradedformulas.com/BENAZADI   BiOptimizers: bioptimizers.com/ketokamp Protein supplements (optional): Kion EAAs – http://www.getkion.com/metabolic  for (20% off) Equip Prime Protein – http://www.equipfoods.com/benazadi  for (20% off) Ben's sauna: https://get.sunlighten.com/ketokamp  Cold plunge brand: plunge.com Use code: KETOKAMP Product: https://paleovalley.com/store?pc=pvpartners&oid=25&affid=68  (ACV Complex) UseCoupon code "ketokamp" for 5% off 📘 Get Ben’s New Book — Metabolic Freedom Includes the 3-stage protocol, biohacks, fasting tips, and more! Available on Hardcover, Audible, Kindle & Spotify 🎁 Bonus: Free Metabolism Course 👉 http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com Ben is speaking LIVE across the U.S. and globally (Orlando, Tampa, Pensacola, Saudi Arabia & more). Details & tickets: http://www.benazadi.com/events 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

In this eye-opening episode of the Metabolic Freedom Podcast, Ben Azadi breaks down the 7 most dangerous meats that are harming your metabolism, gut, hormones, and overall health—even the ones labeled “healthy.” From factory-farmed chicken to deli meats and farmed salmon, Ben explains how these meats are produced, why they’re harmful, and what to eat instead. He also shares a shocking case of chicken-triggered panic attacks and his favorite sources for clean, regenerative meats. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Most conventional meats are full of toxins, antibiotics, and inflammatory fats. Factory-farmed chicken and pork are major sources of hidden health issues. Better swaps include grass-fed, pasture-raised, and wild-caught options. Learn how meat production affects stress, inflammation, and even mental health. Get Ben’s go-to resource for clean meats: www.ketokampmeat.com Order Metabolic Freedom for a 30-day fat-burning plan: http://metabolicfreedombook.com 💡 Resources Mentioned: Regenerative farm locators: http://eatwild.com | http://localharvest.org | https://organicconsumers.org/regenerative-farm-map/ Ben’s live tour dates: http://benazadi.com/events  🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

Ben Azadi reveals the surprising results of his 60-day butter experiment—eating 1 tablespoon of grass-fed butter daily. He shares the science behind butter’s role in fat loss, inflammation reduction, and metabolic health, highlighting key nutrients like butyrate, CLA, and fat-soluble vitamins. Ben breaks down timelines of expected results, best butter brands to use, brands to avoid, and answers listener FAQs on cholesterol, fasting, and more. Key Topics: Why butter doesn’t make you fat The role of butyrate and CLA in metabolism Timeline of changes over 60 days Approved vs. fake butter brands Creative ways to add butter to your diet Butter’s effect on fasting, cholesterol, and insulin resistance Resources Mentioned:📘 Get Ben’s book Metabolic Freedom and claim a FREE course:http://metabolicfreedombook.com 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

In this powerful episode, Ben Azadi sits down with Dr. Matthew Lederman — a physician and pioneer in nonviolent communication — for a conversation that goes far beyond diet and exercise. Together, they unpack how emotional health, purpose, and stress are intimately tied to your ability to lose weight and feel truly alive. Dr. Lederman shares eye-opening insights on why so many people struggle with weight loss resistance, and it has nothing to do with willpower. You’ll learn how tuning into your emotions, reconnecting with your sense of purpose, and embracing joy and human connection can unlock a path to lasting vitality. Expect practical tools, real talk, and a refreshing take on what it really means to heal — body and mind. Whether you’re stuck in a cycle of stress or just feeling disconnected, this episode offers a roadmap back to yourself. 🔥 Key Topics Discussed: The relationship between emotional state, stress, and overall health. Understanding weight loss resistance and its multifactorial nature. The impact of stress and purpose on physiology and health outcomes. The concept of social genomics and its effects on immune system gene expression. The importance of face-to-face interactions for regulating the nervous system. Practical tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including grocery shopping strategies. The role of chronic inflammation and gut health in weight loss resistance. The significance of having a sense of purpose and its influence on health and longevity. Strategies for managing stress and fostering a healthy nervous system. The benefits of play, laughter, and downtime for overall well-being. 🔗 Links and Resources: 🧘 Get the We Be Kalm device here: http://webekalm.com/THEBENAZADI   use the code THEBENAZADI for 15% off Connect with Dr. Lederman: Instagram: @webekalm  Facebook: @webekalmofficial  Twitter/X: Likely @webekalm  🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

Ben Azadi reveals the shocking results of his 90-day carnivore diet experiment — eating only meat, no fruits, vegetables, or carbs. Despite critics warning it would harm his health, Ben experienced fat loss, improved gut health, better sleep, and enhanced brain clarity. He tracked everything: glucose, HRV, body fat, labs, and microbiome. His findings challenge conventional nutrition advice and show how a meat-only diet impacted his body, brain, and gut. Key Topics: What Ben ate (carnivore levels 2–3) Blood work and stool test results Mental clarity, deep sleep, and fat loss Gut microbiome improvements without fiber FAQs about protein, supplements, and cravings Mentioned Resources: 📘 Metabolic Freedom book + free course → http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com 🛠️ Tools: Oura Ring for sleep tracking: https://amzn.to/46vf69y InBody Scale for fat/muscle analysis: https://amzn.to/4eDRTUR LabCorp labs Watch my previous video for a complete breakdown of my before and after labs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1hCAgddsVY&list=PL3q2XjTF08MCKcJPMJiQlIsuX6UVFq_iG&index=4 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

In this eye-opening episode, Ben Azadi welcomes the powerhouse behind "The Thyroid Fixer," Dr. Amie Hornaman. Together, they dive into the real-life struggles many people face when it comes to thyroid dysfunction, from fatigue and weight gain to mood swings and feeling disconnected from your own body. Dr. Amie shares why so many thyroid conditions are missed or misdiagnosed, how standard lab tests often fail to tell the full story, and what questions you should be asking your doctor. She also explains how environmental toxins can quietly wreak havoc on your thyroid and why individualized treatment is the key to lasting results. If you've ever felt like something isn't right but can't get the answers you need, this episode will give you hope and direction. You'll walk away with practical tools to become your own health advocate and a renewed understanding of how to support your energy, metabolism, and overall well-being. 🔥 Key Topics: Connection between thyroid health and metabolic function Overview of thyroid conditions, including Hashimoto's disease and hypothyroidism Common symptoms associated with thyroid dysfunction Importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive testing for thyroid hormones Root causes and triggers of hypothyroidism Relationship between insulin resistance and thyroid health Dietary and lifestyle interventions to support thyroid function Role of supplementation in managing thyroid health Impact of environmental toxins on thyroid function Patient empowerment in healthcare conversations regarding thyroid health 🔗 Links and Resources: Dr. Amie's Website: https://dramie.com Connect with Dr. Amie on Social Media here 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals Meet Ben Azadi in person! Click here to view his upcoming speaking schedule and book signing: https://benazadi.com/events/