Where's the evidence?: The Truth About Cholesterol, Blood Sugar Spikes, and Metabolic Health with Dr. Gil Carvalho
02/21/25 • 50 min
🎥 In this episode, Dr. Carvalho breaks down the hidden risks behind cholesterol, blood sugar spikes, and how they connect to your metabolic health. You’ll discover why these markers matter, the biggest misconceptions, and practical steps you can take to stay healthy.
The Truth About Type 2 Diabetes: What the Science Says
In this episode of Mastering Blood Sugar, we break down the real causes of type 2 diabetes and what the evidence says about reversing it. With so much misinformation online, it’s easy to get caught up in debates over carbs, fats, and sugar—but what does the research actually show?
What’s Really Causing Type 2 Diabetes?
The primary driver of type 2 diabetes isn’t just one food or macronutrient. The biggest factor is excess fat accumulation, particularly in the liver and pancreas. Research shows that losing this fat, regardless of diet, can significantly improve insulin resistance and even put diabetes into remission.
How to Reverse Type 2 Diabetes
The strongest predictor of diabetes remission is weight loss—specifically, fat loss in key areas. Studies like the DIRECT trial show that even moderate weight loss can restore blood sugar control. However, different approaches work for different people. Low-carb, Mediterranean, and fasting-based diets have all shown success. The key is sustainability—choosing a method that works long-term.
Should You Worry About Blood Sugar Spikes?
With the rise of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), many worry about brief post-meal blood sugar spikes. But the science is clear: temporary increases are normal. The real concern is when blood sugar remains elevated for extended periods. Instead of focusing on small fluctuations, it’s more important to look at overall patterns and long-term metabolic health.
The Bottom Line
Type 2 diabetes is not a lifelong, irreversible disease. The research shows that reducing excess body fat—especially visceral fat—can restore normal insulin function. Multiple dietary strategies can work, but sustainability is key. Rather than getting caught up in diet trends or fear-based nutrition advice, focus on what actually leads to long-term success.
Key Takeaways
5:17 Weight loss is the strongest factor in diabetes remission
7:54 Losing fat in the liver and pancreas can normalize blood sugar
9:24 Muscle mass plays a key role in glucose control
16:16 Many diets work but sustainability is the key to success
25:38 Saturated fat and heart health what the science actually says
32:42 LDL cholesterol vs ApoB the best markers for cardiovascular risk
38:52 Blood sugar spikes are normal chronic high levels are the real issue
Resources:
Website: www.nutritionmadesimpl.com
Books: (Check Dr. Carvalho’s latest research and publications.)
Instagram: www.instagram.com/nutritionmadesimple
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nutritionmadesimple
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCosmc75v-B2Dk7GWyEyFFMw
🎥 In this episode, Dr. Carvalho breaks down the hidden risks behind cholesterol, blood sugar spikes, and how they connect to your metabolic health. You’ll discover why these markers matter, the biggest misconceptions, and practical steps you can take to stay healthy.
The Truth About Type 2 Diabetes: What the Science Says
In this episode of Mastering Blood Sugar, we break down the real causes of type 2 diabetes and what the evidence says about reversing it. With so much misinformation online, it’s easy to get caught up in debates over carbs, fats, and sugar—but what does the research actually show?
What’s Really Causing Type 2 Diabetes?
The primary driver of type 2 diabetes isn’t just one food or macronutrient. The biggest factor is excess fat accumulation, particularly in the liver and pancreas. Research shows that losing this fat, regardless of diet, can significantly improve insulin resistance and even put diabetes into remission.
How to Reverse Type 2 Diabetes
The strongest predictor of diabetes remission is weight loss—specifically, fat loss in key areas. Studies like the DIRECT trial show that even moderate weight loss can restore blood sugar control. However, different approaches work for different people. Low-carb, Mediterranean, and fasting-based diets have all shown success. The key is sustainability—choosing a method that works long-term.
Should You Worry About Blood Sugar Spikes?
With the rise of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), many worry about brief post-meal blood sugar spikes. But the science is clear: temporary increases are normal. The real concern is when blood sugar remains elevated for extended periods. Instead of focusing on small fluctuations, it’s more important to look at overall patterns and long-term metabolic health.
The Bottom Line
Type 2 diabetes is not a lifelong, irreversible disease. The research shows that reducing excess body fat—especially visceral fat—can restore normal insulin function. Multiple dietary strategies can work, but sustainability is key. Rather than getting caught up in diet trends or fear-based nutrition advice, focus on what actually leads to long-term success.
Key Takeaways
5:17 Weight loss is the strongest factor in diabetes remission
7:54 Losing fat in the liver and pancreas can normalize blood sugar
9:24 Muscle mass plays a key role in glucose control
16:16 Many diets work but sustainability is the key to success
25:38 Saturated fat and heart health what the science actually says
32:42 LDL cholesterol vs ApoB the best markers for cardiovascular risk
38:52 Blood sugar spikes are normal chronic high levels are the real issue
Resources:
Website: www.nutritionmadesimpl.com
Books: (Check Dr. Carvalho’s latest research and publications.)
Instagram: www.instagram.com/nutritionmadesimple
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nutritionmadesimple
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCosmc75v-B2Dk7GWyEyFFMw
Previous Episode
Unlocking the Power of Fasting for Better Blood Sugar
In this episode, Dr. Jockers discusses the ketogenic diet, blood sugar control, and diabetes. He reflects on how the ketogenic diet's popularity has grown over the years and shares new insights and learnings from his experiences. Dr. Jockers highlights the importance of this diet in managing diabetes and improving overall health. Join us on this enlightening journey as we explore the science behind this powerful dietary approach and its myriad benefits for blood sugar regulation. This episode is your one-stop podcast for unlocking the secrets of the ketogenic diet and its incredible impact on blood sugar management.
Fueling the Body: Unraveling the Ketogenic Diet's High-Fat Magic
The ketogenic diet is a low-carb, high-fat, and moderate-protein approach that involves cutting out sugars, grains, and high-carb foods, favoring healthy fats like avocados, olive oil, and grass-fed meats. This triggers ketosis, where the body efficiently burns fat for energy, aiding weight loss. Fat's satiating effect reduces hunger, and lower carbohydrate intake leads to decreased insulin levels, promoting overall health.
Unlocking the Fat-Burning Potential: The Vital Role of Reducing Insulin Levels
The ketogenic diet reduces blood sugar levels and improves control by limiting carbs and increasing healthy fats, leading to ketosis, where the body burns fat for fuel. This lowers insulin levels, addressing insulin resistance and promoting fat utilization. Ketones, produced during ketosis, offer various health benefits.
Safeguarding Through Inflammation: The Body's Intricate Defense Mechanism Against Food Threats
Inflammation is a natural defense mechanism in the body against infection and foreign substances. Yet, chronic inflammation can be detrimental to health and increase the risk of various diseases. Dr. Jockers explains that food consumption can trigger inflammation, and adopting a ketogenic diet and fasting can help reduce it. When we eat, the body perceives food as a potential threat due to microbes and harmful substances it may contain. Consequently, the body initiates an inflammatory response to protect itself. Certain dietary choices, like high-carbohydrate foods raising insulin levels, and frequent eating throughout the day, can lead to chronic inflammation by consistently activating these inflammatory pathways. This constant presence of high insulin levels puts the body on high alert, sending inflammation signals throughout the entire system.
Key Takeaways:
00:11 Ketogenic diet improves blood sugar
10:23 Ketones and fasting reduce inflammation
10:58 Inflammation and ketosis explained
22:04 Transitioning to a ketogenic diet
22:18 Stay hydrated and consume electrolytes
32:28 Ketogenic diet can reverse diabetes
33:04 Personalized approach for optimal health
38:40 Revitalize your energy: hydrate with more water
Resources:
Website: https://drjockers.com/
Books: https://drjockers.lpages.co/keto-metabolic-breakthrough-b/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjockers/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrDavidJockers/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/djockers
Next Episode
The Truth About GLP-1: Benefits, Risks, and What You’re Not Being Told
🎥 In this episode, Dr. Brian Mowll sits down with Dr. Tyna Moore to break down the truth about GLP-1 receptor agonists, the science behind their effects, and why mainstream medicine might not be telling the full story.
They explore the regenerative benefits of these peptides, their impact on metabolism, and why low, controlled doses could be the key to long-term success.
Are GLP-1 Agonists More Than Just Weight Loss Drugs?
GLP-1 receptor agonists are widely known for their role in weight loss and blood sugar control, but their benefits go far beyond that. In this episode, Dr. Tyna Moore shares her deep dive into the research, revealing how these peptides influence brain health, inflammation, chronic pain, and even immune function.
How GLP-1 Affects More Than Just Appetite
GLP-1 isn’t just about suppressing hunger—it plays a crucial role in metabolic health, neuroprotection, and immune system regulation. Dr. Moore explains how the body naturally produces GLP-1, why some people may be deficient, and how strategic, lower dosing could offer lasting benefits without the extreme side effects seen in mainstream medicine.
The Problem With High Doses and Rapid Titration
Many people experience severe side effects because they’re prescribed doses that are too high, too fast. Dr. Moore discusses why slow, controlled dosing makes all the difference—and how compounded versions allow for safer, more individualized treatment.
The Bottom Line
GLP-1 agonists are powerful tools for metabolic health, but they must be used correctly. This episode uncovers the real science behind these peptides, how they fit into a comprehensive approach to wellness, and why sustainable strategies matter more than quick fixes.
Key Takeaways
6:42 – The overlooked regenerative effects of GLP-1
12:15 – Why mainstream medicine gets dosing wrong
18:27 – GLP-1’s role in immune function and inflammation
24:49 – How to use GLP-1 safely without muscle loss
32:10 – Common myths about GLP-1 side effects
38:21 – The future of peptide-based therapies
Dr. Tyna Moore's website: https://www.drtyna.com/
Dr. Tyna's podcast: https://hub-4yw49ejlx7.membership.io/
Ozempic Uncovered video series: https://www.drtyna.com/ozempicuncovered
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