200: Leptin and Obesity

Summary Obesity Medicine Expert. Dr. Ali Novitsky, explores the fascinating science behind the hormone Leptin and its crucial role in suppressing the hunger cue in this episode of the "Muscles and Mindset" podcast. She delves into the concept of Leptin resistance, shedding light on why some individuals struggle to lose weight despite being in a calorie deficit. Dr. Ali explains how Leptin resistance can lead to a decrease in energy expenditure and an increase in hunger, making sustainable weight loss challenging for individuals with obesity.  She emphasizes the importance of recognizing obesity as a disease and advocates for a comprehensive approach to its treatment, going beyond solely focusing on calories in versus calories out. Dr. Ali highlights the potential benefits of GLP-1 agonists, medications that can help manage Leptin resistance and improve satiety. Alongside proper nutrition and exercise, these medications can support individuals with obesity in achieving sustainable weight loss. Dr. Ali also underscores the significance of early recognition and treatment of obesity to prevent the development of chronic illnesses. In conclusion, she encourages listeners to approach obesity and its treatment with an open mind, considering its multifaceted nature. Dr. Ali expresses gratitude for healthcare professionals who are dedicated to serving patients and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a growth mindset. Don't miss this insightful episode that provides valuable insights into the role of Leptin in obesity and the potential benefits of GLP-1 agonists in managing Leptin resistance   Takeaways Obesity is a disease, and leptin resistance is a factor that can cause obesity. Leptin is a hormone produced in fat cells and signals to the brain about the body's fat stores. In leptin resistance, the brain does not recognize high leptin levels, leading to a decrease in energy expenditure and an increase in hunger. GLP-1 agonists can help manage leptin resistance and improve satiety.   Timestamp Chapters: 00:00:00 - Introduction to the Muscles & Mindset Podcast 00:00:19 - Recap of a family vacation 00:01:34 - Introduction to the topic of Leptin and Obesity 00:02:16 - Leptin as one of the favorite hormones to talk about 00:03:08 - Recognizing obesity as a disease 00:03:44 - Discovery of leptin in 1994 00:04:17 - Misconceptions about leptin resistance 00:05:00 - The debate between calories in, calories out and hormonal factors 00:05:42 - Normal metabolic state and the role of leptin 00:08:13 - Misunderstanding of high leptin levels in obesity 00:09:06 - Explanation of leptin resistance and its effects on energy expenditure and hunger 00:10:21 - Different levels of leptin resistance and the difficulty of achieving a calorie deficit 00:12:20 - The role of GLP-1 agonists in managing leptin resistance 00:14:04 - GLP-1 agonists improving satiety and appetite control 00:15:28 - Diagnosis of leptin resistance and the need for further research 00:17:48 - Hope for early recognition and treatment of leptin resistance 00:19:13 - Importance of open-mindedness and collaboration in healthcare 00:20:28 - Finding a balance between calories in, calories out and hormonal factors 00:21:11 - Announcement of upcoming program on muscle mass maintenance during weight loss   Resources Mentioned 31 Days of FIT. Learn more HERE. Muscle Maintenance During Fat Loss. Waitlist HERE. Fit Woman Collective™. Learn more HERE. Transform® 8.0 deposit link is now open. Sign up HERE. Follow Dr. Ali Novitsky on TikTok | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube Subscribe to The Muscles and Mindset Podcast on Apple Podcasts   *** Ali Novitsky MD, this podcast, and podcast write-up are NOT providing medical advice ***