Metabolic Freedom: How to Burn Fat, Not Sugar, with Ben Azadi

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Carrie Jones sits down with Ben Azadi to discuss metabolic flexibility, fat-burning versus sugar-burning states, and why traditional calorie-focused approaches to weight loss often fail. You'll hear them discuss: Why 93% of Americans are metabolically unhealthy The difference between sugar burners and fat burners How obesogens and toxins contribute to weight loss resistance The role of fasting insulin and blood glucose in evaluating metabolic health Why “calories in, calories out” is overly simplistic How fasting, ketosis, and metabolic flexibility help restore health Practical steps to shift from sugar-burning to fat-burning in 7 days The power of gratitude and mindset in sustainable health change Ben Azadi is the founder of Keto Kamp, author of the upcoming book Metabolic Freedom , and a leading voice in the fasting and keto space. After transforming his own health and weight, Ben has gone on to educate thousands globally on how to unlock fat-burning metabolism, address root causes of metabolic disease, and optimize wellness through diet, mindset, and functional practices. His work centers on empowering individuals to achieve what he calls “metabolic freedom”—the ability to thrive using fat, not sugar, as fuel. Guest Details: Ben Azadi’s Website : benazadi.com Instagram : @thebenazadi YouTube : Ben Azadi on YouTube Podcast : Metabolic Freedom Podcast Book : metabolicfreedombook.com – Metabolic Freedom (May 13, 2025 release) – Pre-order bonuses include a 12-lesson metabolism course + interviews with Dr. Jason Fung, Megan Ramos, Gary Brecka, Dr. Daniel Pompa, and Cynthia Thurlow Rupa Health Details: Rupa Health's Website , LinkedIn , Instagram , YouTube Rupa Health Reference Guide & Magazine Dr. Carrie Jones Website , Instagram , Facebook & YouTube Timestamps 04:12 – What a Healthy Metabolism Looks Like 05:43 – Common Signs You’re a Sugar Burner 06:15 – Why Fasting Insulin is More Important Than A1C 09:09 – Optimal Ranges for A1C and Glucose 11:02 – Why "Calories In, Calories Out" Isn’t Enough 14:50 – Senescent Cells, Inflammation, and Weight Loss Resistance 16:34 – Obesogens and Toxins That Disrupt Metabolism 21:03 – Where Ben Stands on Seed Oils 25:03 – How to Shift to Fat Burning in 7 Days 27:48 – Supporting the Liver During Metabolic Shifts 29:15 – Using Glucose and Ketone Monitors for Insight 33:20 – Next Steps: Fasting, Movement, and “Metabolic Confusion” 35:01 – Why Snacking Sabotages Metabolic Flow 37:27 – How to Start Intermittent Fasting (the Right Way) 39:02 – Ketone and Glucose Tracking in the 30-Day Plan 40:28 – Yes, You Can Have Carbs Again 43:03 – The Role of Mindset and Gratitude in Weight Loss 45:36 – Where to Find Ben and Get His Book