Episodios

  • 269: The Anti-Aging Power of Resistance Training

    269: The Anti-Aging Power of Resistance Training
    Jul 14 2025
    Dr. Novitsky’s message is clear:“It’s never too late to start strength training."Whether you’re in your 30s or 70s, building muscle and improving strength is one of the best things you can do for your body and mind."In this inspiring episode, obesity medicine expert, Ali Novitsky MD, MD dives deep into the transformative power of strength training, especially its profound benefits for anti-aging, longevity, and overall health. With a special focus on individuals aged 70 and older, Dr. Novitsky shares why now is the perfect time to begin — or restart — your strength journey, no matter your age or fitness level.💪 Strength Training for Every AgeDr. Novitsky introduces a comprehensive strength training program launched on June 17, 2024, this program is tailored for beginners and older adults, offering:52 weeks of unique strength workoutsJust 10 minutes, 3 times a weekThree fitness levels – with no repeated workoutsAccessible to all, regardless of experience or equipmentHer excitement is palpable as she celebrates the increasing participation of those over 70 in this program — a powerful sign of shifting mindsets around aging and wellness.🔑 Key Benefits of Strength Training🧠 Brain & Mood:Boosts BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and endorphins for better memory, focus, and mental well-being.💪 Muscle Preservation:Muscle mass naturally declines ~1% per year after age 30. Resistance training can preserve and rebuild this critical tissue.🦴 Bone Density:Increases bone strength and reduces the risk of fractures and osteoporosis — vital for aging well and staying mobile.🦵 Joint Health:Improves joint lubrication and reduces risks of tendonitis and other injuries by strengthening the muscles that support joints.🩸 Hormonal Balance:Improves insulin sensitivity, regulates blood sugar, and positively influences hormones like cortisol, ghrelin, leptin, testosterone, and growth hormone.⏳ Longevity & Independence:Regular strength training can extend lifespan and health span, allowing people to live longer with a higher quality of life — and with greater independence as they age.🧭 Practical Tips for Getting StartedDr. Novitsky emphasizes starting small:Try 10-minute workouts 3x/weekOr one 30-minute session to beginThe goal? Build consistency, not perfectionEven brief but consistent strength training routines can dramatically shift your trajectory toward better health and vitality.🧰 Program Options & ResourcesLooking to begin or advance your training? Explore these offerings:Beginner Strength Training Program – For those just getting started, with no equipment or prior experience.Total Fitness Program – For intermediate and advanced individuals, with 20–30 minute workouts.Transform Coaching Program – Comprehensive lifestyle coaching, including fitness and nutrition guidance. Earn 72 CME credits.👉 Visit thefitcollective.com and click “Programs” to learn more.Stay tuned for future episodes packed with expert insights, real-life success stories, and actionable health strategies.00:00 – Introduction & program excitement00:31 – Program launch overview01:14 – 52 unique workouts & no repeats03:00 – Beginner encouragement04:04 – Muscle mass loss with age06:23 – Bone density benefits07:27 – Joint health improvements08:19 – Mental health & BDNF09:22 – Hormonal effects of training14:41 – Strength training & longevity15:57 – How to get started16:38 – Explore more programs17:01 – Final thoughts & encouragement🎯 Ready to Personalize Your Health?Work with Dr. Ali• Beginner Strength Training Program – 12 months for only $199! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll TODAY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Total Fitness Program – A 12-month mind-body experience. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• The Fit Collective® x InBody USA/Canada – Get 15% off select models. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click HERE⁠
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    17 m
  • 268: The BMI Paradox: Understanding Normal Weight Obesity

    268: The BMI Paradox: Understanding Normal Weight Obesity
    Jul 6 2025
    🎙️ The BMI Paradox: A Deep Dive into Body Composition and HealthHosted by Dr. Ali Novitsky, MD – Obesity Medicine Expert and Fitness GuruIs BMI really the best measure of health? In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Ali Novitsky takes us beyond the scale and into the science of body composition. Sharing her personal story and medical expertise, she unpacks the BMI Paradox—why a “normal” BMI doesn’t always mean healthy, and why being labeled “overweight” might not be as bad as it sounds.👩‍⚕️ Ali’s Personal BMI Story:Growing up, Dr. Ali was always “bigger” than her peers. She opens up about the emotional impact of BMI labels and how her perspective evolved as a physician and fitness expert.🧬 Genetics & Body Type:Ali shares how her parents’ body types (meso-endo and mesomorph) shaped her view of health. Their longevity and mindful habits inspired her holistic approach to wellness.📉 Debunking the BMI Myth:Although BMI is still required for medication approvals, Dr. Novitsky explains why the Obesity Medicine community is shifting away from using it as a sole health indicator. Her previous podcast began this discussion—today, she deepens it.👭 Meet Samantha and Suzanne:Two fictional patients help illustrate the paradox:Samantha: BMI 23 (normal), but 38% body fat = normal weight obesity.Suzanne: BMI 28 (overweight), but high muscle mass and low body fat = metabolically healthy.⚠️ Normal BMI Isn’t Always “Healthy”:Samantha’s body fat puts her at higher risk for metabolic issues despite her “healthy” BMI. Suzanne, although labeled overweight, has a body composition that protects her from many of the same risks.💪 The Power of Muscle Mass:Muscle isn’t just for looks—it improves insulin sensitivity, supports metabolic function, and, in Ali’s case, helped manage her PCOS.🧠 Individualized Treatment Plans:Using motivational interviewing, body composition analysis, and targeted nutrition, Ali explains how she’d approach care for both patients:Samantha: Build muscle, reduce body fat through nutrition, possibly consider medication.Suzanne: Maintain muscle, refine nutrition to support long-term fat loss goals.🧰 Practical Tips for Listeners:Dr. Ali shares real-life action steps:Strength trainingNutrient-dense eatingRegular follow-upsExploring support tools like GLP-1s or metformin when needed✨ Final Thoughts:Your health is more than a number on a chart. Dr. Novitsky encourages listeners to challenge outdated measures, focus on what’s really going on inside, and embrace individualized health strategies.🎧 Whether you’re like Samantha, Suzanne, or somewhere in between—this episode will inspire you to reframe how you view your body, your health, and your goals.🧬 Explore Our Programs:Beginner Strength Training (12 months for $199!) – Enroll Today »Total Fitness Program – 12-Month Mind-Body Experience – Join Here »The Fit Collective® x InBody USA/Canada – 15% Off – Get Offer »⏱️ Episode Timestamps:00:00 – Intro & Ali’s Personal Story01:56 – Family Genetics & Body Types02:59 – BMI in Obesity Medicine Today03:20 – Samantha’s Case: Normal Weight Obesity05:58 – Suzanne’s Case: Healthy at Higher BMI09:12 – Individualized Treatment Strategies15:09 – Lifestyle Interventions19:47 – Muscle Mass in Women21:14 – Final Thoughts & Program Invitations👉 🔔 Never miss an episode! Click here to follow us on Spotify » #TheFitCollective #BodyComposition #BMIParadox #WomenInMedicine #MuscleMatters #HealthBeyondBMI #DrAliNovitsky #ObesityMedicine
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    22 m
  • 267: Navigating Weight Gain in Perimenopause and Menopause

    267: Navigating Weight Gain in Perimenopause and Menopause
    Jun 25 2025

    🎧 Episode Overview:


    Dr. Ali Novitsky returns with renewed energy and exciting updates—including an upcoming trip to Japan and life with new chicks!

    In this episode, she tackles a timely and often misunderstood issue: weight gain in lean women during perimenopause and menopause. Through personal insights and a detailed case study, she explores how hormonal shifts impact metabolism, body composition, and mental health—and how to approach this population with compassion and strategy.

    1. Understanding Hormonal Shifts

    · Estrogen & testosterone decline, cortisol increases

    · Impact on muscle mass, fat distribution, energy, and anxiety

    · Dr. Novitsky’s personal hormone journey

    2. Case Study: Laura (Age 45)

    · Lean, active woman experiencing weight gain

    · Symptoms, lab results, and emotional impact

    · Guided steps for clinical management

    3. Tools for Tailored Assessment

    · Importance of motivational interviewing

    · Taking weight history and analyzing body composition

    · Using InBody scans to assess fat/muscle distribution

    4. Nutritional and Lifestyle Strategy

    · Conducting a nutrition audit

    · Realistic food tracking goals

    · Importance of strength training in midlife

    5. Addressing Resistance & Setting Expectations

    · Normalizing frustration and resistance

    · Setting achievable fat loss goals

    · Supporting “naturally thin” women who are metabolically vulnerable

    6. When Lifestyle Isn’t Enough

    · Recognizing when medication may help

    · Debunking stigma around pharmacologic support

    · Advocating for early, proactive intervention

    · Hormonal changes in perimenopause affect more than weight — they impact muscle, mood, and metabolism

    · “Normal weight obesity” is real — body composition matters more than BMI

    · Strength training is key for sustainable metabolic health

    · Compassion + data = successful clinical care

    🕒 Timestamps:

    00:00 – Summer update + trip to Japan

    00:43 – Weight gain in lean perimenopausal women

    05:05 – Case Study: Laura

    09:47 – Motivational interviewing and trust-building

    13:08 – Hormonal shifts: cortisol, testosterone, thyroid

    15:00 – Sleep, hunger hormones, and weight

    19:04 – Detailed weight history

    22:03 – Body composition metrics that matter

    29:08 – Nutrition audit tips

    35:02 – Why strength training is essential

    42:09 – When to consider medication

    43:22 – Wrapping up and next week’s teaser


    🎤 Final Thought:

    Dr. Novitsky reminds us that weight gain during perimenopause isn’t a personal failure — it’s biology. With compassionate care and science-backed strategies, women can navigate this life stage with confidence and clarity.


    🎯 Ready to Personalize Your Health?

    Work with Dr. Ali

    • Beginner Strength Training Program – 12 months for only$199! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll TODAY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    • Total Fitness Program – A 12-month mind-body experience. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    • The Fit Collective® x InBody USA/Canada – Get 15% off select models. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click HERE⁠
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    44 m
  • 266: The Cortisol Connection: How Stress Impacts Weight Loss

    266: The Cortisol Connection: How Stress Impacts Weight Loss
    Jun 13 2025
    Genetic Testing and Stress: A New Approach to Weight LossEpisode Summary:In this episode, Dr. Ali Novitsky delves into the intricate relationship between cortisol and weight loss. As an obesity medicine doctor, she teaches about cortisol, a stress hormone, in a way that anyone can understand - and how this important chemical can significantly impact weight loss efforts.Listeners will walk away with a new understanding of how to stop battling their biology, reconnect with their bodies, and embrace a compassionate, personalized approach to long-term health.1. The Stress-Weight Loss DisconnectHow cortisol — the body’s primary stress hormone — impacts fat retention, appetite, insulin resistance, and even skeletal muscle loss.Why traditional advice (eat less, move more) often fails under chronic stress conditions.2. Cortisol’s Five-Fold Impact on Fat LossEnhances fat storage via lipoprotein lipase.Raises blood sugar through gluconeogenesis.Promotes insulin resistance, sabotaging metabolism.Stimulates cravings for sugary, fatty foods.Depletes muscle mass — especially under high-exertion training paired with emotional stress.3. How Stress Alters Appetite & MotivationThe biological basis behind binge-eating urges and low exercise motivation during stress.How stress-related sleep disruption increases ghrelin (hunger) and suppresses leptin (satiety).4. The Power of Genetics and PersonalizationWhy Dr. Novitsky utilizes genetic testing (e.g., Genomind) to identify cortisol-related SNPs and tailor strategies accordingly.Insight into Dr. Novitsky’s own cortisol sensitivity and how it shaped her evolution.5. Mind-Body Fitness: A Holistic Training PhilosophyHow Dr. Ali moved from calorie-obsessed fitness to personalized, neuroscience-driven strength training.Why “less is more” when it comes to training under chronic stress and how to work with your nervous system, not against it.Examples of muscle-preserving success — even among clients on GLP-1 medications like her 70-year-old mother-in-law. 6. Transformational Coaching & CommunityA behind-the-scenes look at Dr. Ali’s Transform program; not just a fitness plan, but a full-body reset grounded in self-compassion and personal truth.Why clients return not for new content, but for the safe, sustaining sisterhood and the life-changing mental shifts.⏱️ Timestamps:00:00:00 - Introduction and Eye Appointment00:01:09 - Cortisol Connection with Weight Loss00:02:45 - Genetic Testing and Cortisol Response00:04:10 - Typical Case Scenario00:05:37 - Understanding Cortisol's Impact00:08:06 - Cortisol and Blood Sugar Levels00:09:32 - Cortisol's Effect on Appetite00:10:48 - Skeletal Muscle Mass Loss00:12:57 - The Sleep-Cortisol Relationship00:14:40 - Strategies for Managing Stress00:17:11 - Conclusion and Program Offerings🎯 Ready to Personalize Your Health?Work with Dr. Ali• Beginner Strength Training Program – 12 months for only $199! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll TODAY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Total Fitness Program – A 12-month mind-body experience. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• The Fit Collective® x InBody USA/Canada – Get 15% off select models. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click HERE⁠
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    19 m
  • 265: Staying Fit on Vacation: Maintain Health Goals While Traveling

    265: Staying Fit on Vacation: Maintain Health Goals While Traveling
    Jun 6 2025
    Nutrition and Exercise Strategies by a Female Physician In this energizing episode, fitness coach for women physicians and nutrition expert, Ali Novitsky MD, shares her best tips for sticking to a healthy eating plan while traveling. Whether you’re a busy doctor, on a family vacation, or just aiming to eat intuitively on the go, Dr. Ali breaks down how to maintain your fitness, nutrition, and mindset — even when you’re far from your usual routine. Learn how intuitive eating, flexible structure, and a focus on purpose can help you feel great without food guilt or fitness stress.From Japan With Love 🇯🇵As Dr. Ali preps her passport and yen for a long-anticipated family trip to Japan, she opens up about common anxieties around breaking fitness routines while on vacation, and how to stay intentional and well without feeling restricted.🧠 Mindset Reset: Why We Struggle with Routine ChangesHumans thrive on consistency. Dr. Ali reframes vacation not as a derailment but as a ✨scheduled interruption✨— a chance to practice flexibility, presence, and self-trust.🎯 Purpose First: What’s Your Trip Really For?Are you traveling for abs or for adventure? If your goal is connection, culture, and rest, your plan should reflect that.🍽️ G.O.A.L.S.: The Intuitive Eating Framework🥄 Get hungry first🍲 Observe for fullness💗 Allow feelings🏃 Love movement💥 Stop perfectionismPlus: 🥩 Prioritize protein, 🍭 Limit added sugar, 🍷 Be picky with indulgences.💪 Move with JoyFrom hotel-room workouts to scenic walks, keep it light, fun, and empowering.😴 Recharge ModeRest = results. Dr. Ali’s golden rule: nothing amazing happens after 9 PM 🌙.👜 Pack Light, Travel LighterSkip the stress. Bring what serves you. Leave the clutter — mentally and physically.🌀 Re-entry Like a ProReturn home with ease by building in a buffer day to emotionally re-align and ease back into routine.🧬 What’s New at The FIT Collective:🧠 48 CME Nutrition Training (30 CME for obesity board cert)💪 DIY Beginner + Total Fitness Programs🧬 Genetics Cohort: Swab now, work with Dr. Ali in Sept.🌐 Explore Programs at thefitcollective.com → Click “Programs”🪄 Final Encouragement:This isn’t falling off — it’s a strategic detour toward sustainable wellness. 💖🧘‍♀️ Vacation as Self-CareSkip the scale, not the experience. Travel becomes restorative when we nourish ourselves with presence and intention.👯 You’re Not AloneThousands have shared the same worries about “losing progress.” Dr. Ali offers compassion, not perfection.📣 Get InvolvedLove this episode? Share it with a friend, review it, or DM Dr. Ali with your favorite takeaway.💌 Stay ConnectedSubscribe for more episodes on intuitive eating, physician wellness, and sustainable health strategies.⏱️ Timestamps00:00:00 - Introduction and Personal Update00:00:13 - Upcoming Vacation to Japan00:00:44 - Vacation and Fitness Goals00:01:16 - Concerns About Losing Progress00:01:37 - Purpose of Vacation00:02:18 - Balancing Health and Memories00:02:29 - Tips for Managing Routine Disruptions00:03:55 - Mindset and Routine Disruptions00:05:10 - Handling Unplanned Trips00:07:18 - Getting Comfortable with Uncertainty00:08:00 - Setting Goals for Vacation00:10:00 - Intuitive Eating Principles00:11:02 - GOALS Mnemonic00:12:07 - Protein and Sugar Guidelines00:14:02 - Nutrition Strategy for Traveling00:14:34 - Exercise on Vacation00:15:38 - Loving Movement00:16:20 - Prioritizing Rest00:17:28 - Travel Light00:18:28 - Re-entry Phase00:19:01 - Importance of Routine00:20:00 - Reflecting on Routine Interruptions00:21:08 - Creating a Travel Protocol🎯 Ready to Personalize Your Health?Work with Dr. Ali• Beginner Strength Training Program – 12 months for only $199! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll TODAY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Total Fitness Program – A 12-month mind-body experience. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• The Fit Collective® x InBody USA/Canada – Get 15% off select models. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click HERE⁠
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    25 m
  • 264: The Hunger Genes - MC4R, ANKK1, Satiety, and Fasting

    264: The Hunger Genes - MC4R, ANKK1, Satiety, and Fasting
    May 28 2025
    The FIT Collective Genetic Insights Series – Episode 2Unlock the Secrets of Your Hunger Genetics and Eating Habits In this fascinating episode, Dr. Ali Novitsky, Obesity Medicine Expert and Fitness Guru, explores the powerful role genetics play in shaping our appetite, eating behaviors, and how we experience fullness (satiety). Drawing from science and personal experience, she breaks down how certain genes influence appetite, body composition, and emotional eating — and how understanding your genetic blueprint can empower you to make personalized, sustainable health choices.👩‍👧 Personal Touches & Real-Life InsightsDr. Novitsky opens with a heartwarming update about her daughter’s upcoming birthday and their summer beach plans, before diving into how her own childhood eating patterns reflect her genetic makeup.🧬 The Genetic Blueprint of EatingThe role of somatotypes (ectomorph, mesomorph, endomorph) in body composition and tendencies toward weight gain or leannessUnderstanding the genetically predetermined “set point” for weightPersonal examples comparing her own adolescent stats with her daughter’s🧠 Satiety and the MC4R GeneDeep dive into the MC4R gene, a key regulator of satietyHow MC4R variants can affect appetite control and lead to overeatingA personal story from Olive Garden highlights how genetic predispositions show up in real life🧪 Emotional Eating & the ANKK1 GeneIntroduction to the ANKK1 gene, which affects dopamine response and can drive emotional eatingThe compounding effects of having multiple genetic variants (like MC4R + ANKK1)🍽️ Practical Strategies to Support SatietyProtein-first approach when dining outHigh-protein snacks in the evening to prevent overeatingFocus on fiber and hydration to improve satietySmart use of supplements: omega-3s, vitamin D, fiber, and magnesiumTips for volume eating and managing cravings based on texture⏰ Fasting and Your GenesHow some individuals are genetically wired to skip breakfastDr. Novitsky shares her personal take on fasting and why it works for herYour genetics can play a major role in how you feel hunger, how your body responds to food, and your susceptibility to emotional eating. The more you understand your unique genetic makeup, the more effectively you can design a lifestyle that supports your optimal health — without frustration or blame.Dr. Novitsky is now enrolling participants in her Genetics Program – a unique opportunity to:✅ Get a genetics testing kit✅ Receive tailored supplement recommendations✅ Build a comprehensive health plan based on your DNA🔗 Enroll now at https://www.thefitcollective.com/genetics-series🕒 Timestamps:00:00 – Personal Updates & Intro03:22 – MC4R Gene & Satiety10:07 – Satiety Strategies18:08 – Eating Out Tips22:00 – Supplements That Help27:01 – Fasting & Genetics30:13 – Wrapping Up + Program Info🎧 Tune in to uncover how your genes might be guiding your hunger, food choices, and even your success in creating lasting healthy habits.🎯 Ready to Personalize Your Health?Work with Dr. Ali• Beginner Strength Training Program – 12 months for only $199! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll TODAY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Total Fitness Program – A 12-month mind-body experience. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• The Fit Collective® x InBody USA/Canada – Get 15% off select models. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click HERE⁠
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    32 m
  • 263: DNA-Informed Health and Fitness Strategies - Genetic Insights

    263: DNA-Informed Health and Fitness Strategies - Genetic Insights
    May 21 2025
    The FIT Collective Genetic Insights Series – Episode 1Understanding Genetics, Stress, & Weight with Dr. Ali NovitskyDr. Ali Novitsky, board-certified in obesity medicine, kicks off a new series on how genetics influence health—especially stress responses and weight regulation. She opens with a personal story: during college, despite eating well and exercising, she gained 20 pounds in three months. Genetic testing later revealed a variant in her cortisol receptor gene, causing her body to release excess cortisol under stress—leading to high blood sugar, insulin resistance, and ultimately, weight gain.Cortisol plays a central role in stress response and metabolism. While helpful in short bursts, chronic elevation from ongoing stress can disrupt insulin function, making weight loss more difficult for those with specific genetic variants. For Dr. Novitsky, managing stress—not restricting calories or increasing workouts—was the key to reversing her weight gain.About 30% of people carry this cortisol receptor variant. In her 2022 genetics cohort, 80% tested positive. This highlights the power of personalized health strategies rooted in understanding one’s unique genetic makeup.Dr. Novitsky uses Genomind’s Mental Health Map, a genetic test offering insight into stress, mood, and focus. One critical gene it reports on is COMT, which affects dopamine breakdown. Individuals with the MetMet variant retain more dopamine—great for focus, but often sensitive to stress. Those with ValVal clear dopamine quickly, leading to impulsivity and a higher likelihood of ADHD.Another important factor is BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), a gene linked to memory, cognition, and mood. Those with a BDNF variant often need regular exercise to optimize brain health and emotional balance.The takeaway? Health isn’t one-size-fits-all. For some, gentle exercise, high-quality sleep, and stress reduction may be far more effective than intense workouts or calorie restriction. Dr. Novitsky’s approach integrates genetic awareness into actionable wellness strategies.She also introduces her four-week genetics program, which includes one-time testing, personalized supplement recommendations, and coaching based on individual results. Participants receive a lifelong health blueprint.Future episodes will explore the genetics of eating behaviors, including cravings and satiety. Listeners are encouraged to tune in and learn how DNA influences decisions, habits, and long-term health.Timestamps00:00:00 - Introduction and Personal Story00:01:00 - Understanding Cortisol and Stress00:04:00 - Genetic Testing Insights00:05:30 - Cortisol and Weight Management00:08:00 - COMT Variants and Dopamine00:10:00 - Dopamine Receptor Genes00:11:00 - Strategies for Managing Genetics00:12:00 - Genetics Program Announcement00:13:00 - Custom Recommendations Based on Genetics00:15:00 - The Role of Serotonin and Oxytocin00:16:00 - Genetic Influences on Eating Behaviors00:18:00 - Stress Response and Emotional Eating00:20:00 - The Importance of Awareness00:22:00 - BDNF and Exercise00:23:00 - Micro-Dosed Lithium and Mood00:24:00 - Genetic Predispositions to Worry00:25:00 - Empowerment Through Genetic Awareness00:26:00 - Preview of Next Episode on Eating Genetics00:27:00 - Enrollment for Genetics Program00:28:00 - Closing RemarksWork with Dr. Ali• Beginner Strength Training Program – 12 months for only $199! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll TODAY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Total Fitness Program – A 12-month mind-body experience. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• The Fit Collective® x InBody USA/Canada – Get 15% off select models. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click HERE⁠
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    29 m
  • 262: Stress-Induced Hunger: Tools and Insights

    262: Stress-Induced Hunger: Tools and Insights
    May 8 2025
    Episode Summary: In this episode, Dr. Ali Novitsky — expert in obesity medicine — explores the powerful link between stress and hunger. While many recognize stress affects eating, Dr. Novitsky explains the underlying science, behavioral patterns, and offers tools to manage stress-driven eating with compassion.Understanding Stress ResponsesDr. Novitsky explains that responses to stress vary widely. Some lose their appetite during stress, while others overeat. This depends on physiology, past experiences, and genetics. It’s not about willpower; it’s about biology and behavior.The Role of HormonesAdrenaline (acute stress): Suppresses hunger during “fight or flight” by slowing digestion.Cortisol (chronic stress): Increases appetite and cravings, especially for sugar and fat.Ghrelin: The “hunger hormone,” rises with stress, intensifying hunger cues.Leptin: The “fullness hormone,” can be blunted by chronic stress, leading to overeating.Acute vs. Chronic StressShort-term stress may shut down appetite. Chronic stress, however, causes lasting hormonal shifts that increase hunger, slow metabolism, and may cause leptin resistance. Dr. Novitsky explains how chronic stress and dieting can disrupt satiety signals and lead to weight challenge — even in those with a “normal” BMI.Behavioral & Genetic ComponentsCoping with food often starts in childhood. Learned behaviors and genetic predispositions influence whether one turns to food under stress. Dr. Novitsky shares her personal experience using food for emotional comfort, highlighting the importance of empathy over shame.Tools to Navigate Stress EatingSomatic Stress Scale (1–10) from DBT helps identify rising stress before acting on it.Mindful Pauses: Ask, “Am I hungry or triggered?”Compassionate Self-Talk: Replace guilt with curiosity.Nourishing Alternatives: Movement, breathwork, journaling, or support.Regulate First: Focus on emotional regulation before dietary restriction.Key InsightManaging stress is a foundation for managing hunger. When we understand our body’s signals and respond with awareness and kindness, we create sustainable habits. Dr. Novitsky reminds us we’re human, not broken—and we’re in this together.Final ThoughtThere’s no shame in stress eating. With knowledge, tools, and compassion, we can make empowered, healthier choices. Dr. Novitsky signs off with gratitude and love.Timestamps00:00:22 - Overview of Stress and Hunger00:00:52 - Individual Responses to Stress00:01:25 - Genetics and Stress Response00:01:46 - Acute vs. Chronic Stress00:02:06 - Hormones Involved in Stress Response00:02:28 - Adrenaline and Acute Stress00:03:43 - Cortisol and Chronic Stress00:05:00 - Insulin and Blood Sugar00:05:20 - Ghrelin and Hunger00:06:13 - Weight Loss and Stress00:06:47 - Leptin and Satiety00:07:30 - Leptin Resistance Explained00:08:02 - Normal Weight Obesity00:09:05 - Critique of BMI00:10:12 - Leptin Resistance and Metabolic Rate00:11:22 - Chronic Dieting and Leptin Resistance00:12:01 - Summary of Hormones and Stress00:13:43 - Genetic Component of Emotional Eating00:18:09 - Empathy and Emotional Eating00:21:09 - Identifying Patterns of Stress Eating00:24:08 - Recognizing Stress Levels00:25:01 - Stress Scale and Emotional Regulation00:27:07 - Chronic Stress and Hunger00:29:04 - Positive Stress and Dysregulation00:30:09 - Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow Dr. Ali Novitsky on Socials⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠Work with Dr. Ali• Beginner Strength Training Program – 12 months for only $199! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll TODAY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Total Fitness Program – A 12-month mind-body experience. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Enroll HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• The Fit Collective® x InBody USA/Canada – Get 15% off select models. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click HERE⁠
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    31 m