Show notes
the way you think about hormones, metabolism, and women's health?
On this episode of The Hormone Genius Podcast, Teresa Kenney and Jamie Rathjen dive into the science of ketosis, ketones, and ketogenic nutrition, and explore how these metabolic pathways may influence energy, insulin, inflammation, brain health, and reproductive hormones.
Teresa shares what first sparked her interest in therapeutic ketosis, including research exploring ketones and cognitive health. Together, they break down the difference between burning glucose and using ketones for energy, explain what happens when the body shifts toward fat as a fuel source, and discuss the difference between nutritional ketosis, intermittent fasting, and exogenous ketone supplements.
In this episode, you'll discover:
What ketones are and how the body produces and uses them for energy.
How insulin and insulin resistance relate to metabolism and metabolic health.
Why ketogenic nutrition has been studied for certain neurological conditions, including epilepsy, and is being investigated for other areas of health.
What exogenous ketones, MCT oil, and Bulletproof coffee are, and why people use them.
How protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates, and food quality fit into a metabolic approach to nutrition.
Why a ketogenic diet isn't necessarily the right choice for every woman, particularly when energy availability, body fat, and reproductive health are concerns.
How the menstrual cycle may influence energy needs, insulin sensitivity, exercise, and nutritional choices.
Why women with PCOS and insulin resistance may benefit from discussing individualized nutrition strategies with their healthcare provider.
One of Teresa's biggest takeaways? There is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. Ketogenic eating, Mediterranean-style nutrition, and other approaches are tools, not rules that every woman must follow. The goal is to find a sustainable way of eating that supports your unique body, hormones, and overall health.
We'll also discuss why starting with the basics, whole foods, adequate protein, healthier fats, and reducing highly processed foods, can be a practical first step before considering more restrictive dietary approaches.
Resources that I trust on Ketogenics:
Dr. Dominic D'Agostino https://ketonutrition.org/
Dr. Ben Bikman https://gethlth.com/
Dr. Sarah Hallberg & Dr.Stephen Phinney https://www.virtahealth.com/
Dr. Jason Fung https://www.thefastingmethod.com/
Dr. Mary Newport:
https://www.amazon.com/Low-Carb-Solution-Alzheimers-Parkinsons-Diseases/dp/1591203813/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=Dr.+Mary+newport&qid=1661274338&sr=8-2
Medical disclaimer: The information presented in The Hormone Genius Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for actual medical or mental health advice from a doctor, psychologist, or any other medical or mental health professional.