Listener Mailbag – Metabolic Mysteries, Medication Strategies, and Dr. Cooper’s Science-Based Answers

This week on Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Mark Wright, and Andrea Taylor dive into your burning questions from around the world—exploring misunderstood metabolic problems, hard-won solutions for real people, and the science behind the headlines. From “selfish brain” physiology to the rollercoaster of insurance and medication access, Dr. Cooper brings clinical clarity and practical hope. Hear real-world listener stories, get advice on tuning your metabolic health, and learn why personalization—not “calories in, calories out”—leads to better outcomes. This is no silver bullet show: it’s metabolic medicine, mythbusting, and science-backed encouragement for your journey. Key Questions Answered What is the “selfish brain” and how does it really impact blood sugar and diabetes risk? Why do GLP-1 medications affect stamina and hunger, and how should you fuel your body if you’re using them? If insurance pulls coverage for medications like Ozempic or Zepbound, what are your practical, safe, and affordable options? How do metabolic markers, medication “cocktails,” and genetic testing shape Dr. Cooper’s individualized care—and can you taper off meds and maintain results? What does “normal” blood sugar look like after meals, and how do you distinguish trends from outliers? Key Takeaways Metabolism is complex—individualized care is essential. Diabetes, hypoglycemia, and insulin resistance all have personal causes and require testing like the Mixed Meal Tolerance Test to solve—not one-size-fits-all advice. GLP-1s require smart fueling. Many experience reduced stamina on these medications. Dr. Cooper recommends upping both complex and simple carbs pre-exercise and consulting with a registered dietitian if fatigue persists. Insurance coverage is a challenge—but not the end. Generic options (like liraglutide/Victoza via Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs), manufacturer programs, and “cocktail” regimens can support continued progress, even if you lose access to top-brand GLP-1s. Feedback loops & genetics drive lasting outcomes. While some patients can successfully—slowly—taper medications, most with metabolic dysfunction will need long-term support. “Clean eating” alone rarely reverses underlying feedback loop glitches. Monitoring is powerful. Using blood sugar monitors (especially for diabetics) can demystify meal spikes and help fine-tune nutrition and medication timing. Personal stories reflect broader truths. Listeners share struggles and solutions, reinforcing that metabolic health spans medication, motivation, and mindset. Dr. Cooper’s Actionable Tips Always dig deeper with testing—not just A1C but also post-meal spikes via the Mixed Meal Tolerance Test. If you’re prescribed a GLP-1 and struggle with energy, increase carb intake safely and talk to a doctor about medication adjustment. For lost coverage, stick to FDA-approved sources: Lilly Direct for Zepbound, Novocare for Wegovy, and Mark Cuban for generics. Don’t risk unregulated online compounds. Recognize the difference between generalized “healthy” habits and targeted strategies that actually move your biomarkers. Stay consistent and compassionate—focus on small improvements over extremes and absolutes. Notable Quote “The metabolism is regulated by a feedback loop…when you introduce outside hormone forms, you strengthen signals to favor fuel utilization over energy conservation.”— Dr. Emily Cooper Links & Resources Podcast Home: Fat Science Podcast Website Submit a Show Question: questions@fatsciencepodcast.com or dr.c@fatsciencepodcast.com Dr. Emily Cooper on LinkedIn Mark Wright on LinkedIn Andrea Taylor on Instagram Generic medication access: Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drugs Zepbound direct: Lilly Direct Additional info: Novocare for Wegovy Fat Science is your source for breaking diet myths and advancing the science of true metabolic health. No diets, no agendas—just science that makes you feel better. The show is informational only and does not constitute medical advice.