Mounjaro/GLP1 - GLP1 & Fasting: Can They Work Together?

This episode explores the intersection of GLP-1 medications and different styles of fasting, drawing from personal experience and research. The discussion opens with a health update, highlighting recent weight loss, changes in body measurements, and the unexpected success of fitting into a new shirt. There's also clarification about how GLP-1 drugs like Mounjaro affect individuals differently, especially regarding nausea and digestion, and a reminder that not all reactions are due to food choices alone.

The focus then shifts to intermittent fasting, particularly a 16:8 approach, and how modern eating habits—constant snacking and frequent meals—contrast with the historical norm of scarcity and gaps in food access. The science of autophagy is introduced as a key benefit of fasting, where the body clears out damaged cells, potentially reducing risks related to cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative conditions. A recent attempt at a 36-hour fast is described, including physical symptoms like shaking and low blood sugar, which led to ending the fast early.

Concerns about maintaining protein and nutrient levels during fasts are also addressed, especially for those focusing on muscle preservation and mobility into older age. The episode discusses how exercise can enhance or complicate fasting, depending on intensity and timing, and emphasizes the importance of hydration during the process. Different types of fasting are explored, including time-restricted eating, 24-hour fasts, and the 5:2 diet, with a recognition that everyone’s biology responds differently.

Scientific studies, Reddit anecdotes, and personal observations converge in this reflective dive into fasting as a potential strategy for better health. There’s also a recognition of fasting's historical role in spiritual disciplines, adding another dimension to its value. The episode closes with a reminder to consult healthcare providers before attempting extended fasts, particularly for those on medications like GLP-1s or managing diabetes. Despite the challenges, the experience is framed as part of a broader experiment in health, vitality, and self-discovery.

00:00 Introduction and Weekly Update
00:30 Weight Loss Progress and Measurements
01:16 Personal Experiences with GLP-1 Drugs
03:17 Exploring Fasting and Intermittent Fasting
06:03 Benefits and Challenges of Fasting
11:30 Nutritional Considerations During Fasting
20:26 Exercise and Fasting
24:30 Final Thoughts and Encouragement