#979 Why Counting Calories Wrecks Your Metabolism (& What Actually Works) with Ben Azadi

In this high-impact episode, we dive deep into the science and strategy behind autophagy, the body's built-in cellular clean-up system that promotes fat burning, energy, and longevity. You’ll learn the best fasting protocols to turn on autophagy, how to measure it using blood glucose and ketones, what breaks a fast, and bonus biohacks to enhance autophagy without extended fasting. 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  🔥 Key Takeaways: Best Fasting Schedules for Autophagy: 16:8 daily intermittent fastin 24-hour water fast (once per week 36-hour fat-burn fast (1–2x per month Top Bonus Autophagy Activators (besides fasting) Cold exposure ❄️ (cryotherapy, cold plunge, cold showers Heat exposure 🔥 (sauna, hot showers) Fasted strength training or HIIT 💪 Organic black coffee & green tea ☕🍵 Senolytic supplements (spermidine, berberine, cordyceps, lion’s mane) How to Measure Autophagy: Use glucose and ketone readings with Keto-Mojo  Rising ketones + falling glucose = enhanced autophagy What Breaks a Fast? Any food that spikes insulin Bone broth (technically breaks a fast) Stevia or flavored electrolytes (stick to unflavored) Fat-soluble vitamins (take with meals instead) Fasting & Women’s Health: Avoid fasting/keto the 7 days before menstruation Practice fasting freely during the first two weeks of cycle 📚 Mentioned Links: 📖 Pre-Order the Book Metabolic Freedom: 👉 http://metabolicfreedombook.com ☕ Purity Coffee (15% off with code KETOKAMP): 👉 http://ketokampcoffee.com  🍵 Pique Green Tea: 👉https://amzn.to/41VRQz2 📊 Keto-Mojo Blood Glucose & Ketone Meter: 👉http://ketokampmachine.com 🧂 BEAM Minerals (discount with code KETOKAMP): 👉 http://beamminerals.com/Ketokamp 📚🎁 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

🔥 Main Takeaway: The common belief that calories in vs. calories out is the key to fat loss is not only flawed — it can destroy your metabolism. 💡 Key Highlights: Host shares his personal 80-pound fat loss journey after breaking free from the calorie deficit trap. The Lie: Counting calories works temporarily, but ultimately leads to hormonal imbalances, slowed metabolism, and weight regain. The Truth: Weight gain is not a calorie issue — it’s a hormone and inflammation issue. Metabolic health must come first. Get healthy to lose weight, not the other way around. Example: Biggest Loser contestants regained weight due to damaged hormones (ghrelin/leptin) post calorie-restriction. Practical Solutions: Cut carbs to <50g/day Follow the 2-2-2 rule for healthy fats Eliminate snacking Practice intermittent fasting (e.g., 18:6 window) Science-Backed Insight: Gut health and hormone balance play a bigger role than calorie math. Bonus: 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  🎁 📚 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) Have you lost weight but still struggle with loose, saggy skin? After losing 80 pounds, I faced the same frustration. The good news? I discovered a natural 6-step protocol that helped me firm up my skin—and it’s helped thousands of others too. Skin cells regenerate every 30 days, so if you follow these steps, you can see noticeable results in just one month. 🧬 6-Step Protocol Highlights: Boost Autophagy with Fasting Trigger your body’s skin-renewal process with these fasting schedules: Daily 18:6 fas Weekly 24-hour fast Monthly 48-hour fast Autophagy clears out damaged skin cells, similar to cleaning expired food from your fridge. Build Lean Muscle Mass Compound movements like squats, push-ups, burpees, and sprints help tone skin and trigger autophagy. Bonus: they boost growth hormone and insulin sensitivity. Ditch Inflammatory Oils Cut out seed oils (canola, soybean, corn, etc.) and swap them with skin-loving fats like butter, ghee, coconut oil, olive oil, and tallow. 🔗 Download the free seed oil card: http://www.seedoilcard.com Control Glucose, Insulin & Cortisol Keep carbs under 100g (or 50g for faster results) Lower cortisol with “Vitamin G” (Gratitude!) Gratitude boosts oxytocin, which counters cortisol and helps your skin glow. Cut Out Alcohol Avoid wine and beer—loaded with estrogenic toxins and pesticides. Clean wine option: http://www.ketokampwine.com  Use binders or glutathione to mitigate occasional drinking. Red Light Therapy (Photobiomodulation) Use a red light panel or lamp 10 minutes, twice a day, from 10 inches away. This increases collagen and improves elasticity. 🔗 Recommended red light devices listed in the episode notes. 🧪 Testing Autophagy Progress: Use glucose/ketone monitoring with Keto Mojo: 🔗 http://www.ketokampmachine.com  You're likely in autophagy when glucose drops and ketones rise—especially after 16+ hours of fasting or post-exercise soreness. 📚 Free Resource: 🔥 Download the Burn Fat Meal Plan to reduce glucose, insulin, and inflammation: http://www.burnfatbook.com

Today, I am blessed to have Josh Dech here with me. He has a deep understanding of the gut-brain connection. He is an ex-paramedic, and Holistic Nutritionist, specializing in gut health. It was the successes his clients have had with complex digestive diseases, previously thought to be impossible, that got him connected to some of the world’s most renowned doctors. Since then, he’s been recruited to the Priority Health Academy as a medical lecturer, helping educate doctors on the holistic approach to gut health, and complex digestive issues. Gut health is known to be connected to mental health, emotions, sleep, productivity, concentration, hormones, inflammation, sickness, detoxification, cravings, relationships and more. An unhealthy gut can severely impact our lives. In this episode, Josh dives into various aspects of gut health, emphasizing its ancestral connection and modern threats. He discusses how our gut microbiome, inherited from birth and influenced by environmental factors, faces challenges from the standard American diet and agricultural practices. Josh warns against the consequences of disrupting the microbiome, linking it to the rise of modern diseases.   Plus, we touch on plant-based medicine, and Josh advocates for its potential benefits over pharmaceuticals. He underscores the influence of financial interests on healthcare choices. Finally, Josh sheds light on the critical role of stomach acid in digestion and health, dispelling common misconceptions about acid reflux and advocating for a holistic approach to digestive issues. Throughout this episode, Josh emphasizes identifying and addressing root causes rather than treating symptoms.  🎁📚  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

Today, I am blessed to have a conversation with Sarah Kleiner, an expert in circadian rhythm health. We explore the profound connection between circadian rhythms, hormonal balance, and metabolism. Sarah emphasizes the importance of aligning meal times with natural light cycles and shares practical tips on optimizing health through morning sunlight exposure and mindful eating patterns. We also discuss the impact of artificial light on hormonal health and the benefits of natural light for metabolic processes. The episode underscores simple, actionable steps for improving metabolic health, such as prioritizing protein, eating whole foods, and getting outside. Get Sarah Kleiner's Circadian Rhythm app here: https://get.mycircadianapp.com/cXOl/FASTED Use the coupon code FASTED Sarah shares why aligning your eating patterns with the sun—not just what you eat, but when—can have a dramatic impact on energy, sleep, and fat metabolism. From the magic of morning sunlight to the hidden dangers of artificial light after dark, she breaks down the science and offers simple, practical strategies anyone can implement. We cover: How circadian rhythms influence hormones and metabolism The best time of day to eat for optimal metabolic function Morning sunlight: your secret weapon for better health Tips to reduce artificial light exposure and support melatonin production Why prioritizing protein and whole foods matters more than ever If you're looking to improve your energy, sleep, and overall wellness without complicated hacks, this episode is packed with actionable, science-backed advice. Get Sarah Kleiner's Circadian Rhythm app here: https://get.mycircadianapp.com/cXOl/FASTED Use the coupon code FASTED 📚🎁  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

Today, I am blessed to host a conversation with Angie Sanchez about the profound impact of emotional intelligence (EQ) on personal and professional relationships. Ben, a bestselling author, underscores the importance of EQ, contrasting it with IQ. Angie, a mentor and colleague, elaborates on EQ's components, such as empathy and self-awareness, and their role in navigating life's challenges. They discuss the significance of empathy, the power of perception, and setting boundaries. Angie shares personal anecdotes and practical strategies for developing EQ, encouraging listeners to embrace self-discovery and emotional growth for a more fulfilling life. You'll Learn: Definition and significance of emotional intelligence (EQ) Comparison between emotional intelligence (EQ) and intelligence quotient (IQ) Key components of emotional intelligence: self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy, motivation, and social skills The role of empathy in personal and professional relationships Strategies for developing emotional intelligence and empathy The impact of emotional intelligence on decision-making and conflict resolution The importance of perception and mindset in shaping experiences Setting and communicating personal boundaries for self-respect The influence of emotional intelligence on overcoming personal struggles and fostering growth The value of mentorship and learning from others in personal development Links and Resources: 🎁 📚 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 video, we're breaking down the benefits hour by hour at critical milestones—14, 16, 24, 30, 36, 48, and 72 hours—so you can understand the science of fasting and how it helps you burn fat, boost brain health, and reset your metabolism. Now, let’s jump into the timeline! ⏳ 14 Hours: Fat Storage Hormone (Insulin) Drops 📉 At 14 hours, your insulin levels start dropping, which is huge for fat loss. 🚀 Insulin is your fat-storage hormone—when it's high, you store fat instead of burning it. 🔥 After 14 hours of fasting, insulin begins to fall, and your body starts using up its stored glycogen (sugar) reserves for energy. Wallet analogy vs bank account  What you’ll notice: ✅ Feeling lighter 💨 ✅ Mental clarity kicks in 🧠✨ ✅ First signs of fat burning 🔥 ⏳ 16 Hours: Cellular Cleanup (Autophagy) 🧹 At 16 hours, your body activates autophagy—its self-cleaning mode. Think of it like a little Pac-Man 🟡 going through your body, eating up damaged cells, toxins, and cellular junk. This process: ✔️ Removes weak, inefficient cells ✔️ Prevents diseases like cancer & Alzheimer's ✔️ Repairs mitochondria for more energy ⚡ Garage analogy with a bunch of junk.  💡 Autophagy is the ultimate anti-aging hack! ⏳ 24 Hours: Digestive Reset + Growth Hormone Skyrockets 🚀 By 24 hours, two MAJOR things happen: 🔄 1️⃣ Digestive System Gets a Break! Your body stops using energy for digestion and instead focuses on: ✅ Healing the gut lining (great for leaky gut & bloating!) ✅ Reducing inflammation in the intestines ✅ Producing intestinal stem cells for gut repair 🌱 If you struggle with acid reflux, bloating, or digestive issues, this is a game-changer! ⚡ 2️⃣ Human Growth Hormone (HGH) SURGES! 💥 By the 24-hour mark, studies show a huge increase in HGH: ✔️ Up to 2,000% in men ✔️ Up to 1,300% in women ⏳ 30 Hours: Brain Supercharge (BDNF) ⚡ Here’s where things get next level… 🚀 At 30 hours, your brain starts pumping out BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)—basically miracle-grow for your brain. 🎯 What happens? ✔️ Brain fog disappears ☁️➡️☀️ ✔️ Memory, focus & learning improve 📚 ✔️ Feels like a spiritual reset ✨ No wonder fasting is a key practice in almost every major religion! ⏳ 36 Hours: FAT-BURNING GOES FULL BLAST 🔥 At 36 hours, you enter deep fat-burning mode. Here’s why: 🔻 Insulin is at rock-bottom levels 🔥 Body fat gets mobilized for fuel 🩸 Your liver converts fat into ketones, which fuel the brain & body Links and Resources: 🎁📚 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

You’ve been told butter is bad — but what if it’s one of the most powerful fat-burning foods on the planet? In this episode, I bust the biggest myths about butter, saturated fat, and cholesterol... and break down the 6 top foods that actually help you burn stubborn belly fat, balance your hormones, and lower inflammation fast. If you're struggling with weight loss resistance, constant hunger, or hormone imbalances, this episode is packed with simple, actionable tips — plus a 30-day fat loss plan to jumpstart your results. 🧈 What You’ll Learn: Why butter is NOT the enemy — and how it actually supports fat burning What conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and butyrate do for your metabolism The top 6 fat-burning, hormone-supportive foods to eat daily Why grass-fed is critical for butter, beef, and eggs How to tell if your olive oil is fake (and the taste test you can do at home) Why snacking is killing your progress (and how to fix it) A powerful 30-day plan to lose up to 20 pounds naturally What to eat if you don’t consume red meat 🛠️ Resources & Links Mentioned: 📘 Free eBook: http://www.targetbellyfat.com  – Your 30-day guide to eliminate visceral fat 🫒 $1 Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Offer: http://www.ketokampoliveoil.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: http://www.metabolicfreedombook.com ($997 Retail Value For FREE)

Today, I am blessed to sit down for a conversation with Jeff Krasno, author of the upcoming book "Good Stress: The Health Benefits of Doing Hard Things." They discuss the importance of metabolic health and the concept of "good stress." Jeff shares his personal health journey, including losing 65-70 pounds and reversing diabetes through intermittent fasting, cold exposure, and dietary changes. They explore the necessity of supplements in modern diets, highlighting the benefits of liposomal technology for nutrient absorption. The episode concludes with a discussion on the transformative power of gratitude for mental and physical well-being. Purchase Jeff's brand new book Good Stress here: https://www.onecommune.com/goodstressbook You Will Learn: Importance of metabolism in achieving optimal health Concept of "good stress" and its health benefits Personal health transformation stories, including weight loss and diabetes reversal Protocols for health improvement, such as intermittent fasting and cold exposure Distinction between chronic stress and intentional, beneficial stress Adaptation of the human body to stressors and the concept of hormesis Role of supplementation in modern diets and addressing nutrient deficiencies Discussion of specific supplement technologies, such as liposomal delivery Importance of tracking health metrics and listening to one's body The impact of gratitude on mental and physical health 📚 🎁 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

Today, I am blessed to sit down with Dr. Stephanie Venn Watson, a veterinary epidemiologist and author of "The Longevity Nutrient: The Unexpected Fat That Holds the Key to Healthy Aging." They discuss the critical role of the saturated fat C15 (penta acid) in cellular health and its implications for metabolic diseases like fatty liver disease. Dr. Venn Watson emphasizes the importance of maintaining adequate C15 levels, which are often found in full-fat dairy and certain fish. The episode also touches on the potential downsides of fish oil supplements and the significance of gratitude in health and longevity. You'll Learn: Importance of saturated fat C15 (penta acid) in cellular health Role of C15 in preventing nutritional deficiencies and cellular fragility Impact of modern dietary trends on fat consumption and metabolism Benefits of full-fat dairy as a source of C15 Research findings linking C15 deficiencies to metabolic diseases, particularly fatty liver disease Dietary sources of C15 and their significance for health Discussion on the development of a C15 supplement for optimizing levels Concerns regarding the consumption of fish oil supplements and their stability Emphasis on whole food sources of omega-3s over concentrated supplements The role of gratitude in health and personal reflections on research and public health 💊 Purchase Fatty15 here: https://fatty15.com/FREEDOM and use the code FREEDOM for 15% off your first order.  🩸 Purchase the Genova Fatty Acid C15 test here: https://connect.gdx.net/shop?utm_source=affiliates&sharedid=&irpid=2524175&irgwc=1  📚 🎁 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) 🔎 Find all of the Metabolic Freedom Sponsorship deals and coupon codes here: https://www.ketokamp.com/sponsorship-deals