About this episode
The 100th episode of Fat Science brings together Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright for a live mailbag celebration with listeners worldwide. Hear how the show began, reflect on lessons learned, and get answers to the questions people wish their doctors would address—especially about metabolism, obesity, diabetes, GLP-1 medications, and more. Dr. Cooper shares the big-picture science behind “why we get fat,” the true drivers of metabolic dysfunction, and the evolution of her pioneering clinical practice. Andrea and Mark reveal the patient’s perspective—an honest look at what happens when the latest science meets real lives. Plus, practitioners and patients weigh in on the shifting cultural tide: it’s not a diet problem, it’s a metabolic problem. Key Takeaways: GLP-1 medications do not appear to harm future fertility or cause birth defect risks; improved metabolism may even help down the road. Leptin resistance/suppression: what labs really mean, why mechanical eating matters, and how ghrelin and other signals clarify the picture. “Diet Drug” stigma is outdated; GLP-1 medications target dysfunction, not willpower. Compounded GLP-1 solutions can be risky. Dr. Cooper explains supply chain, testing, and safer cost-saving alternatives like Lilly Direct, NovoCare, and Canadian Kwik pens. Autoimmune diseases (like celiac) may interfere with signals, but GLP-1s—especially bioidentical ones—are still options with careful monitoring. “Selfish Brain” explained: labs to request, what cerebral insulin suppression looks like, and why fueling and sleep are core solutions. Hashimoto’s: often distinct from metabolic dysfunction; both need tailored management and mechanical fueling. Heavy lifting & nutrition: protein needs often overstated—1.0–1.3g/kg ideal; pre-bed protein useful; DEXA scans help track muscle mass. Menopause & metabolism: estrogen/leptin loss, why patch plus micronized progesterone is often safest, and how each choice impacts metabolic health. Navigating insurance complexities, tariffs, and lifetime maxes—when and how to explore creative access. Metabolic changes tied to cycles, pregnancy, birth control: which progestins are weight-neutral, what to ask, and which labs to run if hitting plateaus. GLP-1s often improve blood pressure; dizziness may mean time to reduce meds, not the GLP-1. Personal Stories & Practical Advice:Andrea and Mark share a decade-plus of metabolic journeys—their dramatic health wins and the ongoing battle for self-compassion and body image. Listeners celebrate victories: reversing fatty liver, thriving after cancer, and breaking free from diet cycles. “No diets. No agendas. Just science that makes you feel better.” The audience and hosts repeat this Fat Science tagline to mark the milestone. Resources:Fat Science explains where fat really comes from and why it won’t just go away. We’re committed to empowering people with accurate information about metabolism and busting the myth that fat is failure. This podcast is informational only and not medical advice. Check out our new website to ask a mailbag question. Contact us at questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.com . Connect with Dr. Cooper on LinkedIn Connect with Mark Wright on LinkedIn Connect with Andrea Taylor on Instagram