082: What Exactly Is Diabetes?

Simple, Healthy Choices for Weight Loss

In this episode, Dr. Steve explains what diabetes really is, clearing up common misunderstandings about the condition. Discover how insulin resistance is key in developing diabetes and why controlling insulin levels is vital for good health. Dr. Steve also talks about how our bodies work to stay balanced, how diet affects insulin resistance, and the importance of being able to switch between using fat and glucose for energy. Join us to learn the basics of diabetes and prepare for our next episode on how to prevent and reverse type 2 diabetes.

[00:01 - 06:12] What is Diabetes?

Explanation of diabetes not being solely about high blood sugar.

The role of insulin resistance in diabetes.

Homeostasis and the body's desire for balance in various levels.

The pleasure center of the brain and its relation to addiction, including food addiction.

[06:13 - 20:47] Insulin and Energy Storage

Definition and function of insulin as an energy storage hormone.

The two forms of energy storage: are glycogen (glucose bricks) and fat.

Importance of metabolic flexibility: switching between fat and glucose for energy.

Effects of high insulin levels: storing fat and preventing fat burning.

[20:48 - 25:44] Diabetes Types and Symptoms

Explanation of type 1 diabetes: lack of insulin production.

Description of type 2 diabetes: prolonged high insulin levels.

Introduction of double diabetes: the combination of type 1 and type 2.

The three P's of diabetes: are polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia.

[25:45 - 30:34] Long-term Effects of High Insulin and Glucose

How high insulin and glucose levels damage blood vessels.

The microvascular complications: retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy.

The macrovascular complications: are heart disease, stroke, and more.

The dangers of ignoring diabetes and the progression to severe health issues.

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Tweetable Quotes:

“Glucose in the blood is what stimulates insulin.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“Diabetes is not a disease of having too high of blood sugar like everybody is trying to tell you. Diabetes is caused by insulin resistance.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“High insulin makes us store fat. Low insulin makes us burn fat.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“Whether you're type one or type two, you can still do very, very well by not putting glucose in your mouth.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett

“When you keep your insulin levels too high for too long, you end up with insulin resistance.” - Dr. Steve Hughlett