Today, I am blessed to have here with me Dr. Alexandra Sowa. As the daughter of a hand surgeon, Dr. Alexandra Sowa was exposed to medicine at a young age. She loved how her father could transform people’s lives by giving them back the use of their hands.
Check out SoWell: https://lddy.no/13m4s Use ketokamp at checkout for 10% off your entire order.
In her internal medicine residency, she saw that same sort of transformation for patients who lost weight and drastically improved their health. Once she knew weight loss medicine was a specialization she could pursue, she never considered anything else.
Now Dr. Sowa is a board-certified physician of Internal Medicine, specializing in preventive health, nutrition and obesity medicine. Through her New York City practice, she has helped thousands of patients lose weight and live healthier lives. Dr. Sowa also holds an appointment as a Clinical Instructor in Medicine at the New York University School of Medicine.
Outside of her practice, she enjoys communicating health messages to the public through print and television. She has published original articles on health-related topics in publications like The Atlantic, NPR, Slate Magazine and the New York Daily News. She has also served as an on-air health expert for national media outlets like Fox News, CBS News, NPR, and The Doctors. Her medical opinions have been featured in print publications, from the New York Times to U.S. News and World Report to Glamour and Parents Magazine. She is a regular weight-loss expert on SiriusXM radio.
She is passionate about optimizing health through food. You can often find her making healthy meals (and a mess!) for her husband and two young sons in the kitchen.
In this episode, Dr. Sowa talks about how she got involved in the health space and her passion for preventing metabolic dysfunction. Unfortunately, 88% of Americans are metabolically inflexible; however, Dr. Sowa says there are easy ways to reverse that. Plus, Dr. Sowa talks about the importance of data and your optimal markers. Tune in as we chat about supplements, intermittent fasting, and the importance of quality sleep.
This episode originally aired in 2022.
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Good Idea Functional Sparkling Water Drinks. Visit http://www.goodidea.us and use the coupon code BEN at checkout.
Everyday Dose combines the classic coffee flavor you know and love with functional mushrooms, collagen protein, and nootropics to promote focus, energy, immunity, and gut health. No crash. No B.S.. Head to https://everydaydose.superfiliate.com/KETOKAMP (5 FREE Travel Packs + Free Frother applied)
Text me the words "Podcast" +1 (786) 364-5002 to be added to my contacts list.
[00:40] Why Dr. Sowa Got Involved In The Health Space
Even before Dr. Sowa went to college, she had discovered the field of public health.
Plus, the idea of prevention always was very attractive to her.
Sowa always wondered why doctors want to treat the disease if they could prevent it.
At college, she really started to understand a holistic view of what it means to be healthy.
Eventually, Dr. Sowa realized a lot of problems in health boils down to metabolic dysfunction.
[04:40] Why Are 88% of Americans Metabolically Inflexible?
So, Dr. Sowa says the solution is actually pretty straightforward.
You can reverse type 2 diabetes; again, it is reversible!
Many people think a low-carb and high-fat diet will give you a heart attack or a stroke; that’s simply not true.
The three macronutrients are carbohydrates, protein, and fat. Out of those three macronutrients, carbohydrates will spike glucose and insulin the most.
It makes total sense that we should eat more protein and fat to reverse high insulin.
[16:45] What Is An Optimal Range For Fasting Insulin?
Optimal is usually under five. Even up to eight is okay for fasting insulin.
Anything higher than eight means your body is making too much insulin in response to carbohydrates.
When Dr. Sowa does bloodwork, she’s looking for metabolic syndrome.
Plus, Dr. Sowa wants to look for vitamin deficiencies.
Learn more about the kits that Dr. Sowa offers here: https://lddy.no/13m4s Use ketokamp at checkout for 10% off your entire order.
[20:50] How Often Should Someone Retest Their Markers?
You should test once a quarter.
If you are embarking on a new lifestyle change, Dr. Sowa says to test right away. That way, you have the data.
Once you start eating keto, then you can see what improves.
Your markers are a better victory than what you see on the scale.
[24:20] How Dr. Sowa Wants To Help People With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOS is a disease of insulin resistance in the majority of cases.
For years, the medical community has gone about treating this in the wrong way.
Up to 50% of women with PCOS will go on to develop type two diabetes by the time they're 40.
Women with PCOS can make themselves feel better by following a low carbohydrate diet.
Sowa developed a kit to help women get a diagnosis. It usually takes women five years and three doctors to understand their diagnosis.
[28:10] Why Dr. Sowa Is A Big Fan of Intermittent Fasting
Fasting will reset your hormones.
Plus, fasting is a great way to understand your relationship with food and hunger.
Remember, you don’t have to eat every two hours.
In the beginning, it's not necessarily about eating less; it's just about eating less often.
[31:10] Why Dr. Sowa Loves Walking After A Meal
Walk after a meal, so your muscles have the ability to take up any glucose.
We should be moving right after we eat to take up any free glucose and use it for energy instead of fat storage.
Five minutes will make a difference!
The sweet spot would be fifteen to twenty minutes.
[34:10] How Important Is Quality Sleep Each Night?
If you don’t get good sleep, sleep, you will be hungry and crave carbohydrates.
Good quality and consistent sleep will keep your cortisol levels down.
When cortisol spikes from poor sleep, the hunger hormone will also spike. Plus, you will get a spike in insulin. When insulin is high, it will drive hunger.
One of the silent epidemics in our country is sleep apnea, where people cannot get good sleep no matter how hard they try.
Luckily, Dr. Sowa will screen for sleep apnea.
[40:30] The Supplements That Dr. Sowa Recommends
Sowa is a fan of her GetSoBalanced supplement. This formula is great for a number of things: Weight management
Healthy metabolism
Blood sugar regulation
Insulin sensitivity
Healthy cholesterol levels
PCOS symptom relief
Gastrointestinal microbial balance
Check out GetSoBalanced here: https://lddy.no/13m4s Use ketokamp at checkout for 10% off your entire order.
Also, Dr. Sow loves myo-inositol; it is a natural alternative to Metformin. It’s great for both men and women.
[46:05] What To Do Before You Take A SoWell Test
First, chug water!
Next, warm up your hands. Run them under warm water and get the circulation going.
Sometimes, you have to massage the finger to get blood to come out.
Once you prick your finger, trust the process.
AND MUCH MORE!
Resources from this episode:
Check out SoWell: https://lddy.no/13m4s Use ketokamp at checkout for 10% off your entire order.
Follow Dr. Sowa LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-sowa-md-ma-50606813/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandrasowamd/
Follow SoWell: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getsowell/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getsowell/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/getsowell
Join theKeto Kamp Academy: https://ketokampacademy.com/7-day-trial-a
WatchKeto Kamp on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUh_MOM621MvpW_HLtfkLyQ
90 Day Detox Program: http://www.ketokampdetox.com
Order Keto Flex: http://www.ketoflexbook.com
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PureForm Omega Plant Based Oils (Best Alternative to Fish Oil): http://www.purelifescience.com Use ben4 for $4.00 off.
Good Idea Functional Sparkling Water Drinks. Visit http://www.goodidea.us and use the coupon code BEN at checkout.
Everyday Dose combines the classic coffee flavor you know and love with functional mushrooms, collagen protein, and nootropics to promote focus, energy, immunity, and gut health. No crash. No B.S.. Head to https://everydaydose.superfiliate.com/KETOKAMP (5 FREE Travel Packs + Free Frother applied)
Text me the words "Podcast" +1 (786) 364-5002 to be added to my contacts list.
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Disclaimer: This podcast is for information purposes only. Statements and views expressed on this podcast are not medical advice. This podcast including Ben Azadi disclaim responsibility from any possible adverse effects from the use of information contained herein. Opinions of guests are their own, and this podcast does not accept responsibility of statements made by guests. This podcast does not make any representations or warranties about guests qualifications or credibility. Individuals on this podcast may have a direct or non-direct interest in products or services referred to herein. If you think you have a medical problem, consult a licensed physician.
Altri episodi di "Metabolic Freedom With Ben Azadi"
#1007 Toxins Are Sabotaging Your Metabolism! – The Shocking Truth About Weight Gain and Insulin Resistance with Dr. Daniel Pompa
In this episode of the "Metabolic Freedom Podcast," host Ben Azadi, bestselling author of "Keto Flex," and "Metabolic Freedom", talks with Dr. Daniel Pompa, a renowned expert in detoxification and metabolic health. They delve into the significant impact of environmental toxins on metabolism, discussing how these toxins contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and hormone disruption. Dr. Pompa emphasizes the importance of addressing these toxins for better health. Ben highlights his upcoming book, "Metabolic Freedom," which includes practical guidance on improving metabolism. The episode offers valuable insights and actionable steps for listeners aiming to enhance their metabolic health and overall well-being.
🔥 Key Topics Discussed:
Impact of environmental toxins on metabolic health
Relationship between toxins and weight gain, insulin resistance, and hormone disruption
Importance of detoxification for improving health
Concept of metabolic flexibility and its role in diet
Effects of fasting on healing and metabolic function
Influence of thoughts and mindset on physical health
Role of gratitude in enhancing well-being
Everyday sources of toxin exposure and practical solutions to minimize them
Importance of supporting detox pathways in the body
Connection between dietary choices and metabolic health outcomes
Links and Resources:
Dr. Pompa's Website: https://pompaprogram.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
Non perdere nemmeno un episodio di “Metabolic Freedom With Ben Azadi”. Iscriviti all'app gratuita GetPodcast.
#1006 Stop Spiking Your Insulin! – The Fastest Way to Achieve Lasting Health & Weight Loss with Megan Ramos
In this episode of the "Metabolic Freedom Podcast," host Ben Azadi and health expert Megan Ramos explore the intricacies of metabolic health, insulin resistance, and dietary strategies. Megan shares insights from her extensive experience with over 20,000 patients, emphasizing the importance of managing insulin levels through fasting and low-carb diets. They discuss the negative impact of constant snacking, the benefits of varying fasting lengths, and the hormonal control of weight loss. Ben highlights the significance of metabolic flexibility and introduces his new book, "Metabolic Freedom," which offers a comprehensive guide to achieving optimal health through dietary and lifestyle changes.
🔥 Key Topics Discussed:
Importance of insulin resistance in metabolic health
Impact of diet on insulin levels and overall well-being
Role of fasting in managing insulin and promoting health
Discussion on dietary strategies, including low-carb and ketogenic diets
The significance of electrolyte balance during dietary transitions
The relationship between calorie intake and hormonal responses
Flexibility in fasting methods for personalized health strategies
Psychological and spiritual benefits of fasting
The concept of metabolic freedom and its implications for chronic disease prevention
Empowering individuals with knowledge and resources for better health management
Links and Resources:
Connect with Megan Ramos: https://meganramos.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
#1005 Why Most Diets Fail After 40 – The Best Fix for Perimenopause Weight Gain with Cynthia Thurlow
In this episode of the "Metabolic Freedom Podcast," host Ben Azadi welcomes Cynthia Thurlow to discuss fasting, metabolic health, and the impact of ultra-processed foods. Ben introduces his new book, "Metabolic Freedom," and emphasizes flexible eating schedules. Cynthia, author of "Fasting Transformation," shares insights on the addictive nature of processed foods and the importance of protein intake, especially for women in perimenopause. They explore the benefits of fasting, hormonal fluctuations, and the significance of sleep. The episode encourages listeners to make informed food choices, prioritize sleep, and adopt a balanced approach to achieve metabolic freedom.
🔥 Key Topics Discussed:
Importance of metabolic health and its impact on overall well-being
The role of fasting in improving metabolic health, particularly for women
Effects of ultra-processed foods on metabolism and health
The significance of protein intake in managing hunger and cravings
Hormonal fluctuations in women, especially during perimenopause and menopause
Strategies for improving sleep quality and its connection to metabolic health
The concept of the "hermetic zone" and optimal stress levels for health
The relationship between metabolic health and neurocognitive disorders
Practical tips for making healthier food choices and reading ingredient labels
The idea of metabolic freedom and its implications for lifestyle and health management
Links and Resources:
Connect with Cynthia Thurlow: https://cynthiathurlow.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
#1004 Doctors Were Wrong About Diabetes! – The Shocking Truth About Reversing Type 2 with Dr. Jason Fung
In this episode, host Ben Azadi delves into an enlightening conversation with Dr. Jason Fung, a leading expert in fasting and metabolic health. They explore the critical importance of metabolic flexibility and the pivotal role of insulin in health. Dr. Fung, known as the "Father of Fasting," shares compelling insights on reversing type 2 diabetes through fasting, debunking the myth that it's a chronic, irreversible condition. The episode highlights practical strategies for implementing fasting and dietary changes, offering hope and actionable advice for improving metabolic health.
🔥 Topics Discussed:
Why high insulin—not just high glucose—is the root of metabolic disease
The most important blood test you're probably not getting: fasting insulin
How insulin resistance leads to obesity, cancer, and cardiovascular disease
Why low-calorie, low-fat diets often fail and wreck your metabolism
The role of fasting in lowering blood pressure and improving digestive health
Fasting's surprising benefits for brain clarity, focus, and mental health
How autophagy and counter-regulatory hormones help protect metabolism
The metabolic power of rotating fasting schedules to break weight loss plateaus
A powerful case study: 100 units of insulin per day to zero in 30 days
Why type 2 diabetes is reversible—and how the ADA only recently acknowledged it
The science behind the world's longest medically-supervised fast: 382 days
Links and Resources:
Connect with Dr. Fung:
Dr. Fung's Website: www.doctorjasonfung.com
Dr. Fung's YouTube Channel: Doctor Jason Fung on YouTube
🎁 📚 Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today to receive immediate access to a FREE course on metabolism ($997 Value) 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
#1003 The 7-Step Protocol to Melt Visceral Fat, Reverse Inflammation & Boost Mitochondria (Without Counting Calories) with Ben Azadi
In this solo episode, Ben Azadi shares his powerful 7-step protocol to eliminate visceral fat—without calorie counting, endless cardio, or relying on willpower. You’ll learn the real metabolic enemies hiding in so-called “healthy” foods, why seed oils are worse than sugar (or even cigarettes), and how to trigger your body’s natural fat-burning pathways through fasting, mitochondrial activation, nitric oxide boosts, and more.
Pre-Order Ben’s new book Metabolic Freedom Get a free $1,000 metabolism course + exclusive interviews 👉 http://metabolicfreedombook.com
🔑 Topics Covered:
The 11 "healthy" foods that actually cause visceral fat (and what to eat instead)
Why seed oils and even fish oil are blocking fat loss and destroying mitochondria
The ideal intermittent fasting protocol for melting fat (18:6 + 24-hour fasts)
A special type of coffee that boosts liver detox and fat metabolism
The secret role of nitric oxide and how mouthwash is sabotaging your results
Daily movement hacks to train your mitochondria
How deep sleep can burn 400 more calories per day (yes, really)
🧠 Bonus Links & Resources:
🎯 Free 30-Day Belly Fat Plan: http://www.targetbellyfat.com
📘 Pre-order Ben’s book Metabolic Freedom: http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com
🧾 Free Seed Oil Allergy Card: http://www.seedoilcard.com
☕ Get Purity Coffee: http://www.ketokampcoffee.com – Use code KETOKAMP for 15% off
😴 Mouth Tape for Better Sleep: https://somnifix.com/?ref=3778298&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=goaffpro use the coupon code ketokamp
🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here:
https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals
#1002 Avoid These Hidden Toxins! – The Most Overlooked Cause of Metabolic Disease with Dr. Aly Cohen
In this episode, host Ben Azadi sits down with Dr. Aly Cohen, a board-certified rheumatologist and integrative medicine physician, to discuss the widespread issue of environmental toxins and their effects on our health. Their conversation is based on Dr. Cohen's new book, "Detoxify: The Everyday Toxins Harming Your Immune System and How to Defend Against Them." Together, they delve into the risks associated with tap water, the presence of toxins in everyday products, and how these toxins are linked to metabolic disorders like obesity. They also offer practical tips on how to reduce exposure to these toxins and support the body's natural detoxification processes.
🔥 You'll Learn:
Discussion on environmental toxins and their impact on health.
Focus on the dangers of tap water and unregulated chemicals.
Examination of specific toxins found in drinking water, such as fluoride, cadmium, and arsenic.
Connection between environmental toxins and obesity/metabolic disorders.
Importance of detoxification and the body's natural systems.
Practical steps for reducing exposure to harmful substances.
Role of nutrition in supporting detoxification processes.
Awareness of microplastics and their health implications.
Recommendations for safer alternatives to common household products.
Emphasis on the significance of sleep and sweating for detoxification.
📘 Grab Dr. Cohen’s new book Detoxify: The Everyday Toxins Harming Your Immune System and How to Defend Against Them – available now! CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE DR COHEN'S NEW BOOK: https://amzn.to/44onhDF
🔗 Links and Resources:
Connect with Dr. Cohen:
🌐 Website: https://alycohenmd.com
🌿 The Smart Human Platform: https://thesmarthuman.com
🎧 Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-smart-human-with-dr-aly-cohen/id1518816002
🎧 Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2ETBDQQ1WWQiHPtvSphUXe
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesmarthuman
▶️ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheSmartHuman
🎁 📚 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
#1001 : The 10-Minute Habits That Melt Fat, Flatten Your Stomach, and Reboot Hormones Fast with Ben Azadi
In this powerful solo episode, Ben Azadi breaks down three metabolic hacks that take less than 10 minutes each but deliver fast, powerful results for fat loss, hormone balance, energy, sleep quality, and longevity.
Pre-Order Ben’s new book Metabolic Freedom Get a free $1,000 metabolism course + exclusive interviews 👉 http://metabolicfreedombook.com
💥 What You’ll Learn:
These simple lifestyle strategies are shockingly underutilized—yet backed by science and results.
Why eating late at night destroys fat-burning hormones like HGH and melatonin
The science behind a 10-minute post-meal walk and its impact on insulin and longevity
How apple cider vinegar before meals crushes cravings, improves digestion, and flattens your blood sugar curve
Why these tips work—even if you're not doing keto or fasting
Quick hacks to suppress hunger at night and optimize your evening routine for deep sleep
🧪 Scientific References Mentioned:
European Society of Cardiology & University of Massachusetts meta-analysis on daily steps and all-cause mortality
Study on postprandial walking and glucose spikes
Research showing 34% reduction in post-meal glucose/insulin from apple cider vinegar
🎯 Action Steps:
Stop eating 5 hours before bed
Walk briskly for 10 minutes after meals
Take 1–2 tbsp of ACV diluted in water before each meal (use a straw!)
📘 Mentioned in This Episode:
✅ Pre-Order Ben’s new book Metabolic Freedom Get a free $1,000 metabolism course + exclusive interviews 👉 http://metabolicfreedombook.com
🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here:
https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals
#999 The Truth About Frankenfoods, Gut Damage, and Red Meat: How Brett Ender Healed Autoimmunity with a Carnivore Diet
Free access to the Metabolic Freedom Course + interviews with Dr. Jason Fung, Dr. Daniel Pompa, Cynthia Thurlow & Megan Ramos when you order the book at http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com
Ben Azadi is joined by Brett Ender for a powerful in-person conversation on the lies of modern nutrition, the war on red meat, and Brett’s full recovery from ulcerative colitis using an animal-based diet.
🔍 Key Highlights:
The real reason seed oils, not red meat, are driving modern disease
Brett’s story: From 30+ bloody bowel movements a day to fully healed with carnivore
Why ultra-processed foods make up 63% of calories—and what that’s doing to your gut
Carnivore vs. keto vs. real food: How to get started based on your budget
The 2030 plant-based agenda, regenerative farming, and food freedom
The truth about symptoms: Why they’re not a curse, but your body’s check engine light
How to shop smart, find local farms, and eat meat on a budget
Tips for navigating restaurants with seed oil allergy cards
How a strict 30-day diet helped Brett reset his metabolism, reclaim his health, and thrive drug-free
👥 Plus: The power of food-based community, how to think critically in a broken system, and why metabolic freedom is the ultimate act of rebellion.
📍Mentioned:
EatWild.com – find local regenerative farms
SeedOilCard.com – print your free restaurant request card
Meat Mafia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meatmafiamedia/?hl=en
🎁 📚 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