Myths & Misconceptions of Insulin Resistance – Ben Bikman – #CoSci

Dr. Ben Bikman, a specialist in bioenergetics and insulin’s role in metabolic disorders, presents a comprehensive talk on insulin resistance. He highlights the rising prevalence of insulin resistance and its impact on various chronic diseases. Bikman stresses the importance of precise terminology and understanding of insulin resistance, differentiating between its pathological and physiological forms. Pathological insulin resistance, often linked to chronic diseases, is caused by factors like chronic stress, inflammation, and hyperinsulinemia. Physiological insulin resistance occurs naturally during periods of growth, such as puberty and pregnancy. Bikman also discusses misconceptions about carbohydrate-restricted diets, explaining that while such diets do not cause insulin resistance, they can affect glucose tolerance tests. He emphasizes the need for proper insulin measurement in clinical settings and the role of metabolic flexibility in health. 0:00 - Introduction to Dr. Ben Bikman 0:14 - Opening Remarks and Gratitude 1:13 - Importance of Democratizing Science 2:01 - Common Myths and Misconceptions about Insulin Resistance 2:35 - Prevalence of Metabolic Unhealthiness in Adults 3:19 - Historical Contributions to Metabolism Understanding 4:02 - Pathological Insulin Resistance and Chronic Diseases 5:13 - Pathological vs. Physiological Insulin Resistance 6:13 - Defining Insulin Resistance 7:59 - Insulin’s Role and Impact on Glucose 9:51 - The Vicious Cycle of Insulin Resistance 11:01 - Insulin Resistance without Hyperinsulinemia 12:00 - Causes of Insulin Resistance 14:26 - Fat Cells and Insulin Resistance 16:10 - Stress Hormones and Insulin Resistance 18:24 - Inflammation and Insulin Resistance 20:47 - Hyperinsulinemia and Insulin Resistance 22:10 - Physiological Insulin Resistance and Growth 24:19 - Puberty and Insulin Resistance 27:19 - Pregnancy and Insulin Resistance 29:04 - Hormones from the Placenta 30:17 - Carbohydrate-Restricted Diets and Insulin Resistance 32:02 - Insulin Production Changes and Glucose Tolerance Tests 36:02 - Metabolic Flexibility 38:13 - Reverse Metabolic Flexibility 40:18 - Managing Glucose Tolerance Tests on Low Carb Diets 42:37 - Randle Cycle and Metabolic Inflexibility 45:00 - Questions and Answers Session