Metabolic Health vs. Disease

In this episode of Make America Healthy, we embark on a fascinating exploration of metabolism featuring two esteemed guests—Dr. Dominic Brandy and Angela Poff, Ph.D. This episode offers an in-depth journey into the harmonious orchestration of metabolic well-being.

Metabolism, the intricate process by which our bodies break down and utilize the nutrients from our foods, serves as a fundamental aspect of our overall health. For Dr. Brandy, advocating a whole food plant-based diet is not just a recommendation but a crucial piece of advice he imparts to his cancer patients. His advocacy for a whole food plant-based diet stems from the remarkable antioxidant power (63 times the antioxidant power than animal products) and a fiber-rich content (60 grams) that significantly contrasts with the average American’s intake.

The repercussions of dietary choices become evident when comparing those on a carnivorous diet to those embracing a fiber-rich one. A carnivorous diet can lead to a rapid proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, while a high-fiber diet promotes the flourishing of beneficial bacteria within just five days.

Shifting focus to Angela Poff’s expertise in ketogenic metabolism, she begins to shed light on the diet’s historical roots at the Mayo Clinic over a century ago. The ketogenic diet, initially developed as a standard therapy for refractory seizures in children, is revealed to shift the metabolic phenotype towards fatty acid metabolism, altering cellular processes.

Angela likens metabolism to a symphony, underscoring the importance of maintaining flux and harmony in pathways. Disruptions, common in diseases like cancer and Alzheimer’s, often manifest through abnormal glucose metabolism.

Acknowledging the adaptability of metabolism to various factors, including diet, timing, sleep, and muscle mass, Angela Poff highlights the importance of maintaining balance. Dr. Brandy emphasizes the significance of resistance training for cancer patients for optimal insulin sensitivity, a crucial factor in preventing cancer growth. Aging individuals, losing muscle mass, becoming insulin insensitive, lead to increased glucose and insulin levels—potent growth stimulators for cancer.

Dr. Brandy and Angela Poff align on the need to eliminate ultra-processed refined foods. Dr. Brandy provides a practical equation to discern processed foods, highlighting the importance of a balanced carbohydrate-to-fiber ratio (five or less). Angela offers three actionable tips for listeners—adopting a whole foods-based diet, avoiding excess simple carbohydrates, and engaging in resistance training. Dr. Brandy suggests consuming 30 different plant foods weekly, filtering tap water, and engaging in regular exercise and sauna sessions for detoxification.

In unraveling the secrets of metabolism, Dr. Brandy and Angela Poff provide a comprehensive guide to empower individuals in making informed choices for their well-being. The key takeaway is clear: our well-being is deeply intertwined with our dietary and lifestyle choices. Let’s begin to embrace healthier habits, taking to heart the advice provided. Together, let’s work towards a healthier and happier America.