#1206 Why Arthritis Is Not a Joint Problem and How Healing Your Gut Can Reverse Inflammation Naturally With Ben Azadi

Rice doesn’t spike blood sugar because it’s “bad.” It spikes blood sugar because of how it’s eaten. In this episode, Ben Azadi breaks down five science-backed ways to upgrade rice so it supports metabolic health instead of sabotaging it. You’ll learn how simple additions like seaweed, vinegar, cooling rice, adding protein and fat, and using soluble fiber can dramatically lower glucose and insulin responses while improving gut health. These strategies are backed by human studies and help turn rice from a fast-acting carb into a slow-digesting, gut-healing, fat-burning food. Key topics covered: Why rice causes insulin spikes and visceral fat when eaten incorrectly How wakame seaweed lowers glucose and feeds beneficial gut bacteria Why vinegar reduces post-meal blood sugar and insulin How cooling and reheating rice creates resistant starch The importance of pairing carbs with protein, fat, and vegetables How psyllium husk can blunt glucose spikes and support digestion Why white rice can be healthier than brown rice for many people If you’ve been avoiding rice due to blood sugar concerns, this episode shows you how to enjoy it again without the crash. FREE GUIDE:  THE WORLD'S EASIEST BREAKFAST DIET -  https://bit.ly/4jotkO9  🔥CLICK For Your Complete 14 Day Fat Loss Plan (Reignite Your Body & Life) HERE - https://bit.ly/4qukWim  👉Organic Wakame: https://amzn.to/499cTli 👉Olive Oil: https://benazadi.com/oliveoi l 👉Organic Apple Cider Vinegar in Glass Bottle: https://amzn.to/44TLkdg 👉Psyllium Husk:https://amzn.to/4pB2yDK 📚 🎁  Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com  ($997 Retail Value For FREE)

What if stubborn visceral fat isn’t about eating less or exercising more, but about fixing the stress, sleep, and toxin overload quietly shutting down your metabolism? In this episode of the Metabolic Freedom Podcast, host Ben Azadi sits down with human performance expert Sam Tejada, founder and CEO of Liquivida, for an in depth conversation on the real drivers of visceral fat, metabolic dysfunction, and accelerated aging. Drawing from his experience as a former firefighter and wellness entrepreneur, Sam explains how chronic stress, sleep deprivation, toxins, poor nutrition, and lack of movement quietly shut down fat burning and hormone balance. The conversation explores practical strategies including meditation, sleep hygiene, toxin detoxification, nutrient IV therapy, personalized testing, and movement based approaches to restore metabolic health. This episode delivers a data driven, holistic framework for reducing visceral fat, improving recovery, and rebuilding a resilient nervous system.   Key Topics Covered Why visceral fat is driven by hormones and stress, not calories How chronic sleep deprivation fuels cortisol and fat storage The role of meditation and nervous system regulation in fat loss How environmental toxins disrupt metabolism and hormone signaling Infrared sauna, glutathione, and detox strategies explained The five foods Sam recommends removing to reduce inflammation Why movement matters more than intense exercise for fat loss Dexa scans and body composition testing for tracking visceral fat Peptides and IV therapy for metabolic and cognitive optimization Testosterone decline, infertility, and restoring hormonal balance Why personalized lab testing matters more than standard ranges   Guest Information Sam Tejada is a human performance expert, wellness entrepreneur, and former firefighter. He is the founder and CEO of Liquivida, one of the fastest growing wellness clinic networks in the United States. Sam specializes in metabolic optimization, IV nutrient therapy, hormone health, diagnostics, and longevity focused protocols.   Connect with Sam Tejada 🌐 Official Websitehttps://www.samtejada.com 🏥 Liquivida Clinicshttps://www.liquivida.com 📸 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/sammy_tejada Follow Ben Azadi 🌐 Website:⁠ https://www.benazadi.com ⁠📸 Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/thebenazadi ⁠📘 Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/benazadi.coach ⁠💼 LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/benazadi ⁠🎵 TikTok:⁠ https://www.tiktok.com/@benazadi⁠ 🔎 Find All Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship Deals ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

For 15 years, Ben lived with chronic inflammation and arthritis that doctors blamed on age and genetics. Medications only masked symptoms and never addressed the root cause. In this episode, Ben explains why arthritis is not a joint problem, but a gut and immune system issue. He breaks down the science behind autoimmune inflammation, leaky gut, and how certain “healthy” foods can silently trigger flare-ups. You’ll learn how gut permeability overstimulates the immune system, why anti-nutrients like lectins, oxalates, and nightshades can worsen rheumatoid arthritis, and how eliminating specific foods can quickly reduce pain and inflammation. Ben also shares his step-by-step protocol to repair the gut, lower systemic inflammation, and restore immune balance using nutrition, fasting, bone broth, high-quality protein, fermented foods, and lifestyle habits. This conversation applies not only to arthritis, but also to other autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s, lupus, and psoriasis. If you’re inflamed, exhausted, or stuck in chronic pain, this episode offers a clear, actionable path forward. Your body isn’t broken. When the interference is removed, healing becomes possible. FREE GUIDE: 5 VEGETABLES YOU MUST AVOID  - https://bit.ly/4skFhbL  🔥CLICK For Your Complete 14 Day Fat Loss Plan (Reignite Your Body & Life) HERE - https://bit.ly/4soBERS  📚 🎁  Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com  ($997 Retail Value For FREE) 🔎 Find All Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship Deals ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals⁠

In this episode, Ben Azadi reveals how castor oil can support digestion, hormone balance, detox pathways, pain relief, sleep, and fat loss. Backed by human research and clinical observations, these simple protocols can deliver noticeable results in as little as days. What You’ll Learn Why constipation, bloating, and belly fat are often driven by stress and inflammation, not calories How castor oil’s active compound (ricinoleic acid) supports gut motility, reduces inflammation, and activates the parasympathetic nervous system The connection between cortisol, visceral fat, and poor sleep How castor oil supports liver detox, lymphatic drainage, and hormone balance Safe, effective ways to use castor oil for joints, PMS, cramps, and pain The exact type of castor oil to use (and which ones to avoid) Key Takeaways Castor oil can improve bowel movements without laxatives Applying castor oil with heat can lower cortisol and improve deep sleep Supports liver function, bile flow, and detoxification Helps reduce joint pain and inflammation without damaging the liver May reduce bloating, puffiness, and lymphatic congestion Choosing a high-quality, organic, cold-pressed castor oil is essential FREE GUIDE: Better Than Ozempic - https://bit.ly/4ssxetw  Castor Oil: https://Benazadi.com/thrones   use code "BENAZADI"  for 10% off CLICK For Your Complete 14 Day Fat Loss Plan (Reignite Your Body & Life) HERE - https://bit.ly/3L7BHkr  📚 🎁  Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today thttp://www.metabolicfreedombook.com  ($997 Retail Value For FREE) 🔎 Find All Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship Deals ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals⁠

In this episode of the Metabolic Freedom Podcast, Ben Azadi reveals how using one tablespoon of high-quality extra virgin olive oil during a fast can enhance fat loss, autophagy, insulin sensitivity, and cortisol balance instead of breaking your fast. Ben explains why fasting is not about zero calories, but about hormonal signaling, and how the right olive oil sends a powerful “fat-burning and healing” message to the body. You’ll learn: Why olive oil does not break a fast and actually enhances autophagy How extra virgin olive oil activates fat-burning genes (PPAR-alpha) The role of olive oil in lowering insulin and cortisol Why high-polyphenol olive oil matters and most grocery store oils fail A simple daily olive oil fasting protocol for metabolic health How olive oil fasting can be gentler and more effective than water fasting The truth about cooking with olive oil vs seed oils Ben also breaks down how to identify real, high-quality olive oil, why polyphenols are the key compound for fat loss and inflammation reduction, and how this simple protocol can lead to better energy, reduced belly fat, and impro FREE GUIDE: Lose 10 Pounds in 7 Days - https://bit.ly/4sjMvfZ  🔥CLICK For Your Complete 14 Day Fat Loss Plan (Reignite Your Body & Life) HERE - https://bit.ly/4souvBe  Fresh Pressed Olive Oil: https://benazadi.com/oliveoil  📚 🎁  Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com  ($997 Retail Value For FREE)

On this episode of the Metabolic Freedom Podcast, Ben Azadi shares his powerful 21-day gut reset designed to eliminate bloating, reduce inflammation, restore energy, and heal the gut without pills, cleanses, or calorie counting. Ben breaks down how late-night eating, constant snacking, inflammatory foods, and modern seed oils quietly destroy gut health and lead to bloating, acid reflux, brain fog, fatigue, and stubborn belly fat. You’ll learn: Why eating at least 3 hours before bed is non-negotiable for gut repair How gentle fasting (14:10 or 18:6) gives your digestive system a daily reset Which “healthy” foods are secretly inflaming your gut The exact foods to remove and what to eat instead for 21 days How to rebuild the gut with fermented foods and gentle prebiotics How this protocol supports IBS, SIBO, acid reflux, and hormone balance Why gut healing leads to fat loss, better energy, and mental clarity Ben also explains how to personalize the reset, reintroduce foods safely, and turn this protocol into a long-term lifestyle for lasting metabolic freedom. FREE GUIDE; World’s Easiest 7 Day- Protocol To Shed Fat, Stop Cravings & Reset Energy - https://bit.ly/49aoXkY  🔥CLICK For Your Complete 14 Day Fat Loss Plan (Reignite Your Body & Life) HERE - https://bit.ly/4souvBe  👉Purity Coffee: https://puritycoffee.com/benazadi use code “benazadi” for 20% 📚 🎁  Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com  ($997 Retail Value For FREE)

Visceral fat is not stubborn. It is protective fat stored when the body senses stress. In this episode, Ben explains why cortisol is the true fat-storage switch and walks you through a 30-day protocol to turn it off. You’ll learn why calories and workouts are not the real problem, and how hormones like cortisol and insulin control belly fat, inflammation, sleep, and metabolic health. What You’ll Learn: Why visceral fat is hormonally driven, not calorie-driven How cortisol and insulin work together to store belly fat The ideal intermittent fasting schedule to lower insulin and cortisol Why eating earlier in the day improves fat-burning sleep The benefits of a weekly 24-hour fast, including autophagy and growth hormone Which foods spike cortisol and must be removed for 30 days The best anti-inflammatory foods and fats to support fat loss How nitric oxide and blood flow unlock visceral fat Why walking is more effective than intense cardio for belly fat The sleep strategies that shut off cortisol at night How minerals help release stored fat and toxins Why your thoughts and gratitude directly impact fat loss hormones FREE GUIDE:  The World’s Easiest Breakfast Diet - https://bit.ly/4jeLvFE  📚 🎁  Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today: http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com  ($997 Retail Value For FREE) Somnifix: https://somnifix.com/?ref=3778298&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=goaffpro  Oura ring: https://amzn.to/46vf69y  Apple watch: https://amzn.to/4nzAPmk

Cold, numb, or tingling feet are not a normal part of aging. They are signs of poor circulation, often caused by low nitric oxide and endothelial dysfunction. In this episode, Ben explains why the feet are the first place circulation problems show up and shares five research-backed drinks that can improve blood flow in as little as 30 minutes. Key topics covered: Why cold feet are a circulation issue, not an age issue The role of nitric oxide in opening blood vessels How endothelial dysfunction limits blood flow Five drinks that support circulation and vascular health The best times to consume each drink for maximum benefit A simple daily movement and walking protocol to amplify results Foods and habits that block blood flow How circulation affects balance, nerve health, and fall risk When to expect results and who should be cautious Featured drinks: High-flavonoid cocoa Ginger tea Pomegranate juice Hibiscus tea Watermelon with lime and sea salt Ben also shares a simple daily stack, grounding benefits, and answers common questions about diabetes, neuropathy, blood pressure, compression socks, and circulation testing. FREE GUIDE: Lose 10 Pounds in 7 Days  - https://bit.ly/4aCrren  🔥CLICK For Your Complete 14 Day Fat Loss Plan (Reignite Your Body & Life) HERE - https://bit.ly/48UAyWy  📚 🎁  Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom today  http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com ($997 Retail Value For FREE)

What if the most important signal of your long term health, recovery, and resilience isn’t how hard you train, but how well your nervous system recovers? In this episode of the Metabolic Freedom Podcast, host Ben Azadi sits down with human performance expert Justin Roethlingshoefer for a deep, practical conversation on heart rate variability (HRV) and nervous system regulation. Justin explains why HRV is one of the most important metrics for long-term health, stress resilience, recovery, and longevity. Together, they explore how sleep, nutrition, exercise intensity, emotional stress, and daily lifestyle rhythms directly influence HRV, VO₂ max, and overall metabolic health. This episode delivers clear, actionable strategies to help listeners optimize recovery, reduce chronic stress, and build a body that feels safe enough to heal. Key Topics Covered What heart rate variability really measures and why it matters HRV as the nervous system’s early warning system The difference between heart rate and heart rate variability How chronic stress suppresses recovery and healing The relationship between HRV, VO₂ max, and longevity Why most people are under-recovered, not overstressed Zone 2 and Zone 5 training explained simply How late-night eating disrupts sleep and HRV Sleep quality, REM sleep, and detoxification Practical ways to raise HRV without overdoing biohacks Book Mentioned 📘 The Power of OwnershipRedeem Your Health, Live by Design, and Break the Relentless Pursuit of Normalhttps://www.amazon.com/Power-Ownership-Redeem-Relentless-Pursuit/dp/1394230028 Guest Information Justin RoethlingshoeferJustin is a human performance expert, data-driven health strategist, and longevity specialist with over two decades of experience working with elite athletes, executives, and high performers. He is a former NCAA and NHL performance coach and the founder of an evidence-based coaching system focused on nervous system optimization, recovery, and sustainable performance. Official Website👉 https://justinroethlingshoefer.com/ LinkedIn👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-roethlingshoefer YouTube Channel👉 https://www.youtube.com/@justinroethlingshoefer Watch the Full Episode 📺 https://www.youtube.com/@BenAzadi Follow Ben Azadi 🌐 Website: https://www.benazadi.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebenazadi📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/benazadi.coach💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benazadi🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@benazadi 🔎 Find All Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship Deals ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals

Waking up between 2–3 AM is not insomnia or bad luck. It’s a biological response driven by low blood sugar and rising cortisol. In this episode, Ben Azadi explains why your body wakes you up alert and wired, and shares a simple, science-backed protocol to fall back asleep within minutes. What You’ll Learn: Why nighttime wakeups are caused by cortisol and blood sugar crashes The exact 4-step protocol to calm your nervous system and restore sleep How nasal breathing, humming, and vagus nerve activation reduce stress fast Why raw honey + sea salt stabilizes blood sugar without ruining fat loss How gratitude (“Vitamin G”) signals safety to the brain The role of liver health, circadian rhythm, and minerals in sleep quality How to prevent 2 AM wakeups long-term through lifestyle changes FREE GUIDE: Better Than Ozempic - https://bit.ly/3MPfc49  🔥CLICK For Your Complete 14 Day Fat Loss Plan (Reignite Your Body & Life) HERE - https://bit.ly/4qHHkFd  📚 🎁  Purchase Ben's new book Metabolic Freedom todayhttp://www.metabolicfreedombook.com  ($997 Retail Value For FREE) 👉SomniFix:  https://somnifix.com/?ref=3778298&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_source=goaffpro  👉Upgraded Formulas - Magnessium: https://upgradedformulas.com/BENAZADI  👉Raw Honey: https://amzn.to/4q5Hzdm   🔎 Find All Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship Deals ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals