In this episode of the Mastering Blood Sugar podcast, host Dr. Brian interviews Dr. Dominic D'Agostino, a scientist from the University of South Florida who studies ketogenic diets, metabolism, and brain health. Dr. Brian and Dr. Dominic discuss the growing popularity of ketogenic diets and their potential benefits for diabetes and metabolic health. Dr. Dominic shares his background, interest in nutrition and metabolism, and research on the neural control of autonomic regulation. Overall, this episode explores the science behind ketogenic diets and their potential impact on overall health. Health Benefits of a High-Fat Diet High-fat diets have been gaining a lot of attention in recent years as more and more research has been conducted on the potential health benefits of consuming a high-fat diet. In particular, the ketogenic diet has been studied extensively, and the results have been quite promising. The research conducted by Dr. Dominic and others on the potential health benefits of a high-fat diet is optimistic. Not only has it been used to treat seizures, but it has also been studied for its potential to improve glycemic control, reduce inflammation, and even fight cancer. While more research is needed, the evidence suggests that a high-fat diet can benefit many people. Ketones Provide Energy During Fasting One of the most exciting aspects of a high-fat diet is the role of ketones in providing energy during fasting. Ketones are small water-soluble molecules produced by the liver, and they are released into the bloodstream when the body is in a fasted state. This allows the body to access a fuel source that it otherwise would not be able to use. Ketones are an efficient fuel source for the heart and the brain, and they can replace glucose as the primary energy source after about 24 to 48 hours of fasting. This is why ketones are crucial for fasting people, as they provide the body with an alternative energy source to help prevent muscle breakdown and keep the brain functioning correctly. Benefits of Ketosis: Health and Energy One of the main benefits of the ketogenic diet is its ability to induce a state of ketosis, which converts fat into ketones for energy. This process of ketosis has several benefits, including improved energy, appetite suppression, and enhanced immunity. One of the primary benefits of ketosis is improved energy. When the body is in a state of ketosis, it can burn fat for energy more efficiently than it would when in a state of glycolysis or burning carbohydrates for energy. This increased efficiency results in an increased energy level, allowing the body to perform at its peak. In addition, ketones may also provide an anti-hypoglycemic effect, benefiting those with diabetes or other conditions that cause hypoglycemia. Website: https://ketonutrition.org Blog: https://ketonutrition.org/blog-2-2/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keto.nutrition/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ketonutrition.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqVNHZUXqn1sFvgppi5Zpmg/videos Twitter: https://twitter.com/DominicDAgosti2 Key Takeaways: [00:01:12] How Dr. Dominic D'Agostino got interested in the study of ketogenic diets and metabolism. [00:04:13] Ketogenic diet for epilepsy. [00:09:01] Ketones as an energy source. [00:12:22] Ketones and their therapeutic effects. [00:16:26] Ketone bodies and energy production. [00:21:13] Therapeutic fasting for seizures. [00:25:47] Low-carb diets for weight loss. [00:30:33] Continuous glucose monitor for diabetes. [00:37:50] Ketones attenuate hypoglycemia effects. [00:38:45] Ketogenic diet and immunity. [00:45:30] Managing type two diabetes. [00:46:43] Starvation diet. Support the show