Dr. Bikman's research focus is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that mediate the disruption that causes and accompanies metabolic disorders, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dementia. Driven by his academic training (Ph.D. in Bioenergetics and postdoctoral fellowship with the Duke-National University of Singapore in metabolic disorders), he is currently exploring the contrasting roles of insulin and ketones as key drivers of metabolic function. He frequently publishes his research in peer-reviewed journals and presents at international science meetings.

The focus of Dr. Bikman's lab (the Laboratory of Obesity and Metabolism) is twofold. First, they aim to identify the molecular mechanisms that explain the increased risk of disease that accompanies weight gain, with particular emphasis on the etiology of insulin resistance and disrupted mitochondrial function. Second, they hope to reveal novel cellular processes that are responsible for fat development and accrual, with a particular emphasis on white/brown fat and the contrasting effects of insulin and ketones.

Much of the lab's recent work is focused on the pathogenicity of the hormone insulin. Insulin, while necessary for healthy living, elicits significant and harmful changes in tissue metabolic function when chronically elevated. Several projects have stemmed from this work, including a focus on the varying effects of dietary macronutrients (e.g., carbohydrates vs. fats) on insulin homeostasis, the effects of insulin on brown adipose tissue (and metabolic rate), and insulin-induced brain alterations.

The lab employs numerous pharmacological and genetic tools to better understand the origins and consequences of ceramide accumulation on various factors related to metabolic function, including signal transduction, substrate utilization, and energy expenditure.

In this episode:

The personal/professional journey

The Fat Cell & The Role of Insulin

Free Fatty Acids & Fatty Liver Disease

Weight Gain

The China Study

Insulin Resistance

Cutting Carbs, Prioritizing Protein, and not Fearing Fat

Fasting, Ketones vs Glucose

Food Addiction

What's next?

Signature Question

Follow Dr. Bikman:

Website: https://gethlth.com/

Book- Why We Get Sick

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benbikmanphd/?hl=en

Twitter: @BenBikmanPhD

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BenjaminBikmanPhD/

ANNOUNCEMENTS: Dr. Vera Tarman's Sugar & Food Addiction Course with Dr. Eric Westman's Adapt Your Life Academy next enrollment starts September 26th – October 3rd. The course is $167 US and the program is made up of 2 essential components: Modules and Lessons partnered with an Ongoing Support Group. Clarissa and I will be there too!

YOU WILL LEARN

Why your self-destructive behaviors around food are not your fault.
How specific foods are engineered to hijack your brain chemistry.
The role of hormones and neurotransmitters in creating and perpetuating cravings and urges around food.
How "wanting," "knowing," and "doing" are controlled in the brain and how to make this work to your benefit.
The differences between food addiction and various eating disorders and why this matters for diagnosis and treatment.
The different stages of food addiction and which treatment approaches are best for each.
The critical importance of social support in recovery from food addiction – why treatment must go beyond just the food.
How to create a recovery plan that's realistic, enjoyable, and sustainable, so you can achieve food freedom and reclaim your life.
There is hope: no matter how far gone you feel, no matter how alone or out of control, you can recover from sugar and food addiction.

https://adaptyourlifeacademy.com/sugar-and-food-addiction/

The content of our show is educational only. It does not supplement or supersede your healthcare provider's professional relationship and direction. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified mental health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, substance use disorder, or mental health concern.