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Fat Science

Dr Emily Coopercoopermetabolic.com
Fat Science is a podcast on a mission to explain where our fat really comes from and why it won’t go (and stay!) away. In each episode, we share little-known facts and personal experiences to dispel misconceptions, reduce stigma, and instill hope. Fat Science is committed to creating a world where people are empowered with accurate information about metabolism and recognize that fat isn’t a failure. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
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Episodes

Metabolic Workup 101: What Tests Reveal About Your Health

This week on Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright break down the essentials of a true metabolic workup. This episode moves beyond social media diet trends and digs into the science behind comprehensive lab panels, what they measure, and why they matter for your whole-body health. Dr. Cooper explains how to interpret common and advanced metabolic markers—like blood sugar, insulin, cholesterol, hormone levels, and more—while Andrea and Mark share personal insights into th...

Jun 30, 202545 minSeason 3Ep. 90

Fatty Liver Disease: What You Need to Know

This week on Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright uncover the truth about fatty liver disease and its rapid rise in both adults and children. It’s estimated 125 million Americans have the disease. Dr. Cooper explains the critical role the liver plays in metabolism—covering hundreds of essential functions—and why fatty infiltration poses serious risks. The episode demystifies diagnosis, risk factors, and treatment options, empowering listeners to take a proactive approac...

Jun 23, 202538 minSeason 3Ep. 89

Is Male Menopause Real?

This week on Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright explore the concept of “male menopause” and whether it’s backed by science. Dr. Cooper breaks down hormonal changes in men, including testosterone decline, metabolic dysfunction, and the myths surrounding andropause. The episode dives into why men and women experience aging differently, how metabolism ties into hormone shifts, and what really happens to male fertility and energy over time. After listening, you’ll underst...

Jun 16, 202535 minSeason 3Ep. 88

The Rise of Metabolic Telehealth

This week on Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright explore the expanding world of telehealth in treating metabolic issues. Dr. Cooper sheds light on both the promise and pitfalls of accessing medications like GLP-1s through online platforms. The episode dives into the effectiveness of patient-provider relationships, the importance of comprehensive and personalized care, and the potential red flags in impersonal telehealth services. After listening, you’ll understand the ...

Jun 09, 202540 minSeason 3Ep. 87

Mailbag: Metabolism Myths, Plateaus, and More

This week on Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright answer listener questions from around the world about metabolic health. This mailbag episode explores widely-debated topics like “starvation mode,” weight loss plateaus, the relationship between metabolism and cognitive health, cannabis and metabolism, metabolic effects of liposuction, and the latest on GLP-1 medications. Key Takeaways: Dr. Cooper dispels myths around “starvation mode,” citing research on the long-term m...

Jun 02, 202533 minSeason 3Ep. 86

Why Sometimes It Takes a Little Patience

This week on Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright explore why metabolic health transformations require time, persistence, and a holistic approach. Andrea shares her 14-year journey with Dr. Cooper, highlighting the slow, individualized nature of healing a dysfunctional metabolism and why quick fixes rarely work. Dr. Cooper explains how complex feedback loops, hormonal adaptations, and life events can slow progress—and why health markers, not just the number on the scale...

May 26, 202541 minSeason 3Ep. 85

GLP-1s: Will I Have to Take Them Forever?

This week on Fat Science, Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright break down the latest science behind GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. Dr. Cooper shares her decades of expertise on how these drugs work, their evolution, and whether you really have to take them for life. The episode dives deep into the individual factors that impact tapering off, the importance of metabolic signals (like famine and security signals), and why medication is just one piece of the metab...

May 19, 202540 minSeason 3Ep. 84

Dosing Download: How much? When? Is It Working?

Join Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright on Fat Science as they unpack the complexities of dosing GLP-1 medications for metabolic health and weight management. Dr. Cooper emphasizes the importance of an individualized approach, debunking the myth that higher doses or faster titration always lead to better outcomes. The team addresses listener questions about how and when to increase doses, highlight the risks of rapid escalation, and discuss the nuanced ways these drugs impact metab...

May 12, 202544 minSeason 3Ep. 83

Mailbag: Your Questions Answered

Join Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright on Fat Science for a special mailbag episode answering listener questions about metabolic health. Dr. Cooper explains the difference between mindful and mechanical (timed) eating, especially for those using medications like Zepbound. The team also addresses emotional challenges tied to frequent eating, societal fat shaming, and the complexities of medication side effects for those on GLP-1 agonists and antipsychotics. Real experiences and pra...

May 05, 202537 minSeason 3Ep. 82

Starved For Answers: The Fallout of Federal Science Cuts

This week on Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright tackle the urgent issue of deep funding cuts to scientific research in the United States. Dr. Cooper shares firsthand insight on how these changes are affecting patient care and scientific integrity, highlighting the pressures researchers face—including censorship and loss of resources at institutions like the NIH. The conversation sheds light on how misinformation, government interference, and reduced diversity in studie...

Apr 28, 202537 minSeason 3Ep. 81

Blood Fats: The Good, the Bad & the Ugly

This week on Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright dive into the world of blood fats—unpacking what cholesterol numbers really mean for your health. They break down HDL (the “good” cholesterol), LDL (the “bad” cholesterol), triglycerides, and spotlight the often-overlooked lipoprotein(a), a genetic risk marker with significant consequences for heart health. The team dispels myths about fats in our diet, covers the impact of lifestyle and genetics, and explores how advanc...

Apr 21, 202537 minSeason 3Ep. 80

Diabetes Wake-Up Call: The Silent Epidemic

Diabetes Wake-Up Call: The Silent Epidemic In this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright take on a troubling statistic—half of American adults are either diabetic or prediabetic, and for those with prediabetes, 8 in 10 don’t know it. Think about your own family. The odds are one in two of your loved ones are at risk. The good news is diagnosing diabetes is easy, and in many cases it’s reversible. Dr. Cooper breaks down the tests you should get, the numbers to l...

Apr 14, 202539 minSeason 3Ep. 79

Understanding Metabolic Health: Top Ten Strategies (Part 2)

In this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright continue exploring the top ten positive things you can do for your metabolism, focusing on steps five through one. With an honest and approachable discussion, this episode sheds light on essential topics like endocrine disruptors, nutrition, sleep, body image, and why the focus should be on health, not weight. Get practical advice for positive changes you can implement in your daily life. Key Takeaways: Endocrine Di...

Apr 07, 202538 minSeason 3Ep. 78

Understanding Metabolic Health: Top Ten Strategies (Part 1)

n this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright break down their top ten lifestyle strategies to enhance your metabolic health. They critically discuss powerful yet straightforward approaches that can significantly improve metabolism. The focus is on easy-to-implement, applicable tips, from knowing key health numbers to managing stress effectively. Key Takeaways: Know Your Numbers: Understanding baseline health metrics like blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol...

Mar 31, 202549 minSeason 3Ep. 77

The People Side of Metabolic Medicine

In this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright explore the human connections in metabolic medicine. With special guest Alisha, a nurse practitioner at the Cooper Center for Metabolism, the episode delves into how patient-provider relationships have a profound impact on metabolic health outcomes. If you're interested in how the world of metabolic medicine is evolving and want a human-centered perspective, this episode is a must-listen. You’ll walk away with a bet...

Mar 24, 202536 minSeason 3Ep. 76

Listener Spotlight

On this episode of Fat Science, it’s time to hear from some of you, our listeners. Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright are joined by two loyal listeners, Scott and Heidi. The episode explores personal anecdotes and transformative moments thanks to a deeper understanding of metabolic health and its broader implications. It also shows you don’t have to have Metabolic Syndrome to benefit from understanding the science connected to it. Key Takeaways: Weight control and diets have long be...

Mar 17, 202538 minSeason 3Ep. 75

Compounded Drugs Part 2

On this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright delve deeper into the topic of compounded metabolic drugs. Dr. Cooper addresses criticisms from listeners about the previous discussion and provides insights into the economic reasons driving people towards compounded drugs. She also dissects the ethics and economics of the diet industry transforming into a subscription medicine model and the role of insurance in accessibility to metabolic treatments. Key Takeaways:...

Mar 10, 202534 minSeason 3Ep. 74

More Mailbag

On this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright open the mailbag and answer questions from listeners all over the world. Dr. Cooper provides expert insights into complex questions about metabolic health, covering topics including metabolic dysfunction, the effects of chemotherapy on metabolism, a discussion of GLP-1s and those trying to get pregnant and the role of iodine in the diet. Engaging and informative, this episode also arms you with the vocabulary and un...

Mar 03, 202542 minSeason 3Ep. 73

The Metabolic Links to PCOS

On this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright explore the intricate metabolic ties to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Dr. Cooper provides expert insight into how understanding these links can transform what seems like a permanent condition into a reversible one. “ I feel like there's so much despair around PCOS when it actually doesn't have to be a long-term condition,” says Dr. Cooper. “I know some of that desperation comes from the infertility piece of it...

Feb 24, 202536 minSeason 3Ep. 72

Letting Go of Calories-In, Calories-Out

On this episode of Fat Science , it’s time to let go of the old paradigm “calories in, calories out.” Join hosts Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright as they kick CICO to the curb. The idea that a person’s weight is determined only by the ratio of calories consumed and calories burned is an over-simplification and often not true, especially for people with metabolic dysfunction. Dr. Cooper reveals the real key to weight management is not calorie counting but understanding metabolic fu...

Feb 17, 202538 minSeason 3Ep. 71

Straight Talk on Compounded Drugs

In this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright explore the world of compounded drugs. These are medications prepared by pharmacists to meet specific needs of patients when commercially-available products are not an option. Changes in dose, accommodating patients with allergies or sensitivities and drug shortages are some of the reasons the FDA allows compounded drugs to be made and sold. Key Takeaways: Compounded drugs are manufactured by pharmacies to offer alt...

Feb 10, 202536 minSeason 3Ep. 70

Cravings: Culprit or Symptom.

n this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright explore cravings and the role they play in metabolic dysfunction. If you watch some drug company commercials these days, you’d think cravings are the culprit for obesity. In reality, they are just a symptom of a deeper metabolic problem. This episode of Fat Science uncovers why this oversimplification is not just misleading but harmful to those struggling with metabolic dysfunction. Join us as we explore the science ...

Feb 03, 202539 minSeason 3Ep. 69

Who Are We Calling Fat?

In this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright explore one of the most contentious topics in the world of health and fitness: the definition and measurement of fat. BMI (Body Mass Index) has long been the standard, but recent studies have called its efficacy into question. Dr. Cooper reveals why BMI can be a flawed indicator of health, exploring alternate measurements like waist circumference and body composition while discussing their limitations and potential ...

Jan 27, 202540 minSeason 3Ep. 68

Get Healthy in 2025 With These 5 Resolutions

In this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright explore five New Year’s resolutions you can make (and not break) for a healthier 2025. The conversation shifts away from unattainable goals and toward practical steps for enhancing overall well-being in the new year. Key Takeaways: Address Metabolic Syndrome If you suspect you have metabolic syndrome, 2025 is the year to take action. Dr. Cooper explains how to identify and address it with testing and medical guidanc...

Jan 20, 202538 minSeason 3Ep. 67

Mailbag: Questions From You!

In this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright field questions from listeners. Throughout the show, our hosts highlight the importance of compassionate, science-based medical care and underscore the significance of finding healthcare providers who address metabolic issues as medical, not lifestyle, concerns. Among the topics addressed: Statins & Weight Gain: We discuss concerns about the relationship between statin use and weight gain, addressing fears of in...

Jan 13, 202535 minSeason 3Ep. 66

Metabolic Meds: What’s Now & What’s Next!

In this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright take a comprehensive look at the current FDA-approved medications designed to treat metabolic dysfunction and what may be approved next. Dr. Cooper discusses the range of factors that determine whether these essential drugs are available for those who need them. Government approval, drug company strategies and insurance company policies all play a role. Key Takeaways: Pharmaceutical Approval Process: Pharmaceutical ...

Jan 06, 202537 minSeason 3Ep. 65

Metabolic Markers: The Power of Your Blood Lab Results

In this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright reveal how metabolic lab tests are crucial in diagnosing, understanding and treating metabolic dysfunction. Key Takeaways: Metabolic Functions: Understanding blood markers like glucose, insulin, and cholesterol offers in-depth knowledge about overall health. Metabolic Syndrome: Defined by issues like pre-diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol problems, increasing the risk of severe health events. Lab Testing...

Dec 30, 202436 minSeason 2Ep. 64

Surviving the Holidays

In this episode of Fat Science , Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright tackle the challenges of maintaining metabolic health during the holiday season. Dr. Cooper emphasizes the importance of keeping a regular routine to manage stress and avoid metabolic disruptions. The team shares practical advice for navigating family gatherings and enjoying the holidays without compromising your health. Key Takeaways: Society's excessive focus on weight and appearance can be harmful; value shouldn'...

Dec 23, 202435 minSeason 2Ep. 63

The COVID Connection to Diabetes & Metabolic Health

In this episode of Fat Science , hosts Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor, and Mark Wright explore the compelling and urgent topic of COVID-19's impact on metabolic health. COVID-19 has introduced a serious new layer of complexity because it can exacerbate existing conditions like diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular and thyroid disease. The latest data reveal a shocking statistic—the risk of developing diabetes can increase by up to 40 percent after a COVID infection. So what should we know about the...

Dec 16, 202431 minSeason 2Ep. 62

Understanding Disordered Eating (You’re Probably Doing It) & Eating Disorders

In this episode of Fat Science , hosts Dr. Emily Cooper, Andrea Taylor and Mark Wright explore eating disorders, disordered eating and their profound impact on metabolic health. Eating disorders and disordered eating are much more common than people realize, affect a significant portion of the population and contribute to serious metabolic issues. So what are eating disorders and disordered eating? How do they differ, and what are the health implications? Listeners will gain a deep understanding...

Dec 09, 202434 minSeason 2Ep. 61
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