In today's installment of The Holistic GLP-1 Podcast, we’re celebrating a milestone—Episode # 50—with a very special returning guest, functional health expert and Biohacker Babes co-host Lauren Sambataro.

Some of you may remember Lauren from way back in December 2022, when she joined us for a masterclass on biohacking metabolism with continuous glucose monitors. Almost three years later, she’s back—and this time, we’re going even further…

In today’s episode, we explore the cutting edge of metabolic health: how CGMs can guide a personalized approach to GLP-1s, why microdosing peptides might be the key to long-term success, and how psilocybin and mycology integration can shift not only your biology but your mindset and soulscape. We talk about protein, hormones, emotional eating and the future of biohacking—all with the help of Lauren’s signature clarity and insight.

📌 Whether you're on a GLP-1 journey or just starting to optimize your health, this episode will give you the tools and mindset shifts to move forward with clarity, precision and compassion.

So, take a breath, settle in, and enjoy the show!

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CLICK HERE TO GET ==> FREE "Freedom From Food Noise" Masterclass:

https://go.elizabethmcgann.com/start

***

SHOW NOTES:

[ 00:00 ] Introduction

[ 01:55 ] The Bigger Picture of Metabolic Health: How Lauren’s focus has expanded from food to environmental toxins and chronic stress as primary drivers of dysregulation.

[ 06:00 ] Food Noise & Real-Time Data from CGMs: How stress (not just food) impacts blood sugar and how CGMs can help track it.

[ 10:40 ] Toxins, Testing & Metabolic Triggers: From heavy metals to mold exposure, Lauren walks through how to investigate toxin load and when to go deeper with functional testing.

[ 11:56 ] GLP-1s & the Case for Microdosing: Both Elizabeth and Lauren advocate for minimum effective dosing, how CGMs can guide it and why metabolic health should come first.

[ 15:14 ] Why So Many People Plateau on GLP-1s: Lauren explains the flattening effect of GLP-1s on the body’s metabolism, and why the "magic pill" approach can only go so far without habit change.

[ 20:00 ] Weight as a Symptom, Not the Problem: Weight gain is not the issue, but the result of deeper imbalances like stress, toxins and poor recovery.

[ 23:34 ] What a CGM Can Reveal About You: From food sensitivities and stress to sleep and exercise response, CGMs are “lifestyle monitors” that decode your body’s feedback.

[ 29:35 ] A Balanced Take on GLP-1s: Lauren’s nuanced view is a must-hear for anyone weighing the pros and cons of these medications.

[ 31:20 ] Peptide Treatments Beyond GLP-1: Lauren shares her take on the peptide boom, her cautious optimism on where it is going and why lifestyle interventions must come first.

[ 43:42 ] Psilocybin to Treat Emotional Eating? Lauren introduces the concept of mycology integration, how microdosing mushrooms can quiet food noise and rewire emotional triggers.

[ 47:27 ] How to Get Started with Psychedelic Support: Lauren recommends the platform she partners with as a useful way of beginning.

[ 50:32 ] Sub-Perceptual Dosing and Presence: How microdosing can help you slow down, rewire decision patterns and reclaim connection to your body’s innate intelligence.

[ 52:56 ] Spiritual Intelligence & the Soul of Weight Loss: Being fully present is spiritual, Lauren says, and that connection can be the missing key to stainable transformation.

[ 57:22 ] What’s Next for Lauren Sambataro: Lauren reflects on shifting from chronic illness cases to deeper emotional healing, microdosing and slowing down personally.

[ 58:28 ] About the Biohacker Babes Podcast: Lauren and her sister co-host a top-ranked podcast on hormones, energy and functional health. 305 episodes and counting!

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Get Connected with Elizabeth McGann:

Coaching Website: http://www.ElizabethMcGann.com

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/elizabethmcgann

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethMcGannWellness

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethmcgann

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElizabethMcGann

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Learn more about Lauren Sambataro

Website: https://laurensambataro.com/

Instagram: @lauren_sambataro

In this powerful and practical episode, host Elizabeth McGann welcomes Maria Emmerich, a 22x bestselling author, nutritionist and renowned voice in the keto and carnivore community. Together, they unpack how to eat in a way that supports GLP-1 hormone signaling, muscle preservation and sustainable fat loss—whether you're taking GLP-1 peptides or not.

Maria shares science-backed strategies that have helped thousands reclaim their health, overcome food noise, and lose hundreds of pounds—without drugs.

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CLICK HERE TO GET ==> FREE "Freedom From Food Noise" Masterclass:

https://go.elizabethmcgann.com/start

***

SHOW NOTES:

[ 00:00 ] Introduction

[ 01:45 ] Meet Maria Emmerich: Nutritionist, keto queen, bestselling author of 22+ books

[ 02:40 ] What “keto” really means—and why protein is the most important macro

[ 04:00 ] Fat vs. carbs: What to eat after you hit your protein target

[ 05:20 ] How keto improves metabolism, GLP-1 signaling, and brain health

[ 06:34 ] The thermic effect of protein & its role in stimulating GLP-1 naturally

[ 08:00 ] Protein vs. medication: “Spend the money on good food, not drugs”

[ 08:44 ] Taking GLP-1? Here’s how to prevent muscle loss on the medication

[ 09:40 ] What is a Protein Sparing Modified Fast—and why it works

[ 11:00 ] Stretching vs. strength training: what really preserves muscle

[ 12:33 ] Behavior change > medication: Why binge eating isn’t always about food

[ 13:25 ] Why most GLP-1 doses are too high and what happens when protein makes you nauseous

[ 14:45 ] The case for microdosing GLP-1 peptides—paired with the right diet

[ 15:41 ] What is Allulose? Maria’s favorite GLP-1 stimulating sweetener

[ 17:06 ] Maria’s personal transformation: PCOS, depression, and curing herself with keto

[ 19:00 ] From coffee shop to Halle Berry’s bookshelf: Maria’s origin story

[ 20:45 ] Carnivore diet explained: Busting myths and cutting through plant propaganda

[ 21:55 ] Why steak has 10x the nutrients of kale and blueberries

[ 25:13 ] Butter on steak? Why too much saturated fat may backfire on your metabolic health

[ 27:11 ] How much protein you need (and where to calculate it for free) → Visit: KetoMaria.com for Maria’s macro calculator

[ 30:45 ] Are you using GLP-1 meds as a crutch or a tool for behavior change?

[ 32:25 ] “I have a recipe for everything”: Why healing your relationship with food starts in your kitchen

[ 33:45 ] Is keto too expensive or time-consuming? Maria debunks the biggest myths

[ 35:36 ] Marathon mindset: How to take small steps and build lifelong dietary changes

[ 37:17 ] Breakfast matters: Why a protein-packed start stabilizes hunger all day

[ 39:51 ] Babies are born in ketosis: Debunking the myth that keto is dangerous

[ 41:08 ] HRT & menopause: Why keto alone can’t fully balance your hormones

[ 44:29 ] Where to find HRT guidance

[ 46:12 ] What estrogen does for your skin, bones, heart, and brain

[ 47:05 ] Working with Halle Berry, writing 22 books, and riding whales in Maui

[ 52:01 ] Inside Maria’s global keto retreats (India, Greece, Bali, and beyond!)

[ 53:30 ] The best place to start: Maria’s flagship book Keto: The Complete Guide to Success
→ Available via KetoMaria.com

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Get Connected with Elizabeth McGann:

Coaching Website: http://www.ElizabethMcGann.com

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/elizabethmcgann

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethMcGannWellness

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethmcgann

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElizabethMcGann

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Learn more about Maria Emmerich:

Website: https://mariamindbodyhealth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariaemmerich/

In this breakthrough episode, Dr. Ralph DeFronzo—one of the most respected names in metabolic health—joins Elizabeth to discuss the real story behind GLP-1 medications.

If you’ve ever wondered:

Do I have to stay on GLP-1s forever?

Are lower doses (or “microdoses”) actually effective?

Can I activate GLP-1 naturally—without prescriptions?

Is it really safe for long-term use?

…this episode gives you honest answers, straight from an expert who helped define modern diabetes treatment.

Dr. D explains how GLP-1s not only facilitate weight loss by reducing one’s appetite, but also protect your heart, liver, brain and kidneys—and why most people overlook this crucial benefit. You’ll learn what makes someone a “super responder,” the link between cortisol and weight loss resistance, and how to finally quiet “Food Noise” for good. ✨

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CLICK HERE TO GET ==> FREE "Freedom From Food Noise" Masterclass:

https://go.elizabethmcgann.com/start

***

SHOW NOTES:

[ 00:00 ] Introduction

[ 01:45 ] GLP-1s: Not just for weight loss—they also protect your heart, liver, kidneys & brain

[ 03:40 ] People often forget: GLP-1s were originally created to treat diabetes

[ 07:35 ] Are low doses (aka “microdosing”) effective? DeFronzo’s take on trending wellness practices

[ 10:55 ] Significant benefits of GLP-1s for non-diabetics

[ 13:25 ] How much weight do you really need to lose to help your heart? The 10% threshold explained

[ 15:55 ] “Weighted” Question: Once on them, do you need to be on GLP-1s forever? The real answer from an expert who knows

[ 19:30 ] Why diet and exercise alone don’t work long-term for most people—and what actually does work

[ 22:30 ] Can you “reverse” diabetes or insulin resistance naturally? The symptoms, YES... but it’s complicated!

[ 25:00 ] How GLP-1s reduce inflammation and rewire your metabolism at the cellular level

[ 28:00 ] The truth about “natural” GLP-1 boosters like berberine, fiber and protein

[ 31:00 ] Dr. DeFronzo’s surprising eating habit—and what it reveals about fasting myths

[ 35:00 ] How GLP-1s may help food addiction by rewiring brain circuitry

[ 39:45 ] Insights from four-year safety data: What we do and don’t know about long-term use

[ 42:00 ] Black box warnings and thyroid cancer risk—what’s real and what’s hype?

[ 44:50 ] Can someone taper off of GLP-1s successfully? Who are the 10–15% that do—and how?

[ 49:00 ] Will future GLP-1s render current meds obsolete? Why retatrutide may change the game

[ 56:00 ] Super-responders vs. non-responders—and the cortisol connection you’ve never heard

[ 59:00 ] Why Dr. DeFronzo thinks the next big breakthrough will be insulin-sensitizers

[ 01:02:00 ] Final thoughts: a hopeful but cautionary note about access, cost and a new generation of GLP-1s on the way

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🔗 Mentioned in This Episode:
Learn how to activate GLP-1 naturally and silence cravings!
CLICK HERE TO GET ⇒ Free Masterclass: Freedom From Food Noise: https://go.elizabethmcgann.com/start

***

Get Connected with Elizabeth McGann:

Coaching Website: http://www.ElizabethMcGann.com

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/elizabethmcgann

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethMcGannWellness

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethmcgann

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElizabethMcGann

***

Learn more about Dr. Ralph DeFronzo:

University of Texas Health San Antonio Bio : https://directory.uthscsa.edu/academics/profile/defronzo

Appearance on Dr. Peter Attia’s THE DRIVE Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vYQaLV3Fm00

Dr. DeFronzo’s Work: Just Google him—you’ll find over 900 scientific publications!

Could sugar be the real addiction holding you back on your GLP-1 weight loss journey?

Join host Elizabeth McGann and “The Sugar-Free Man” Michael Collins—founder of SugarAddiction.com and the Quit Sugar Summit—for an unfiltered look at why cutting sugar might be the fastest path to healing your metabolism, resetting your hormones and getting off GLP-1 drugs for good.

Michael shares the shocking truth about how sugar lights up the same brain pathways as cocaine, why it’s not just willpower, and how 41,000+ people have successfully detoxed with his protocol. Whether you're currently on a full GLP-1 prescription, microdosing, all-natural or simply curious, this episode will change how you think about cravings, Food Noise and what your body actually needs to release weight.

🎯 In This Episode You’ll Learn:

Why GLP-1 meds are just a tool—and how to wean off them naturally

The shocking truth about how sugar hijacks your brain

What counts as “sugar” (spoiler: it’s more than cookies)

How to detox safely and finally end "Food Noise"

The link between sugar, trauma, and emotional self-soothing

SHOW NOTES

[ 01:44 ] Meet Michael Collins, the “Sugar-Free Man” who’s helped over 41,000 people break free from sugar’s grip—without shame or willpower wars.

[ 02:22 ] Raised on sugar, numbing with it for years, and then getting sober—Michael shares how emotional pain often hides in plain sight…in your cravings.

[ 04:24 ] Food noise, food guilt, and food obsession—where it really comes from and why your brain might be hardwired to seek sugar.

[ 05:52 ] The uncomfortable truth: sugar acts like a drug in the brain. Here’s how it hijacks your mood, your hormones, and your ability to feel full.

[ 09:33 ] Two-thirds of the population is hooked—but no one wants to admit it. Michael breaks down the real numbers and what people are too ashamed to say out loud.

[ 13:41 ] Backed by science: sugar lights up the same brain pathways as cocaine. The reward loop is real—and you can’t think your way out of it.

[ 15:05 ] Mental fog, low energy, and memory issues? Sugar might be shrinking your brain. Metabolic psychiatry is rewriting the conversation on addiction and aging.

[ 17:33 ] Why sugar isn’t just cookies. It’s hidden in “healthy” foods—fruit juice, bread, potatoes, dried fruit. If you’ve quit sweets but still feel cravings, this is why.

[ 20:16 ] How 5-year-olds are ending up with fatty liver—and what that means for your hormones, metabolism and longevity.

[ 23:40 ] You think you’re being “good” by cutting back—but even small amounts of sugar can trigger a cascade that sets you back. Why abstinence is easier than moderation.

[ 30:03 ] For some, GLP-1 can be a useful bridge. But real freedom comes when the sugar cravings disappear and the dose drops—or disappears too.

[ 31:28 ] The detox that’s changed lives: no sugar, no flour, and no caffeine (yep, caffeine too) for 30 days. And why it works when nothing else does.

[ 35:29 ] What to eat instead. The power of whole foods, healthy fats and removing the biochemical noise so your body can regulate hunger naturally.

[ 39:10 ] Some foods keep your cravings on life support. What you need to know about nuts, dairy, and even fruit once you’re deep into your healing.

[ 44:30 ] The deeper reason weight returns after success. If you’ve ever thought, “Why can’t I just stay on track?”—you'll need to hear this part.

[ 49:00 ] This isn’t a diet. It’s a path to healing your brain, stabilizing your mood, and remembering who you are without the daily sugar hit.

[ 52:16 ] Want to take the first step? Visit QuitSugarSummit.com to join Michael’s sugar detox or find group coaching.

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CLICK HERE TO GET ==> FREE "Freedom From Food Noise" Masterclass: https://go.elizabethmcgann.com/start

***

Get Connected with Elizabeth McGann:

Coaching Website: http://www.ElizabethMcGann.com

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/elizabethmcgann

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethMcGannWellness

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethmcgann

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElizabethMcGann

Learn more about: Michael Collins, “The Sugar-Free Man”

Website: https://sugaraddiction.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realsugarfreeman/?hl=en

The Last Resort Sugar Detox Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Last-Resort-Sugar-Detox-Guide/dp/172922329X

What if your weight loss journey could be both powerful and sustainable—without sacrificing your body's muscle mass, metabolism or equilibrium?

In the latest episode of The Holistic GLP-1 Podcast, Elizabeth sits down with Dr. Jaime Schehr, a nationally recognized naturopathic doctor and registered dietitian, to unpack the truth about using GLP-1 medications holistically.

Together they explore how to microdose GLP-1 medications to avoid muscle loss; why supporting your body naturally is crucial (whether on the medication or not); and how real change comes from self-awareness—not shortcuts. You'll also learn why Food Noise happens, how to quiet it naturally, and what to prioritize if you're serious about sustainable, body-loving weight release long term.

If you're a woman in perimenopause or menopause looking for a natural, soul-aligned path to weight loss, this episode is for you.✨

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CLICK HERE TO GET ==> FREE "Freedom From Food Noise" Masterclass: https://go.elizabethmcgann.com/start

***

SHOW NOTES:

[ 00:00 ] Intro: Mind, Body & Soul Weight Release with Elizabeth

[ 01:20 ] Redefining GLP-1: Not just about fast weight loss—it's about metabolic healing

[ 02:20 ] Dr. Jaime’s first exposure to GLP-1 medications during the pandemic—and the “Hail Mary” experience that changed her mind about it

[ 04:10 ] Why standard diets fail women in midlife, the perils of a “diet culture” and what everyone must understand about hormonal health

[ 06:40 ] Activating your natural GLP-1: Fiber, gut health, strength training and strategic supplementation

[ 08:00 ] Why fatigue—not nausea—is the biggest reason people fail on GLP-1 medications

[ 10:30 ] Optimizing blood sugar balance: The key behind sustainable fat loss (with GLP-1s or not)

[ 13:20 ] How low-carb eating supports microdosing success—and why ketogenic diets are challenging

[ 17:00 ] Behavior change secrets: Why self-awareness is the foundation of lasting health

[ 20:30 ] How to protect lean muscle mass while using GLP-1 (hint: strength training + protein!)

[ 24:00 ] The dangers of high-dose GLP-1 regimens and crash weight loss

[ 26:20 ] Using GLP-1 as a support tool, not a crutch—not simply for “fast weight loss” as most people think

[ 29:20 ] Understanding Food Noise whether on or off GLP-1 medications: Is it just based on glucose spikes?

[ 33:30 ] Dr. Schehr’s experience with patients getting off of GLP-1 medications

[ 36:00 ] Finding the minimum effective dose—not the standard pharmaceutical prescription

[ 38:00 ] How Bio.me supplements help support gut health, metabolism and GLP-1 weight loss success

[ 41:00 ] The return to community, in-person wellness and holistic empowerment after the pandemic

[ 42:45 ] The next 18 months, where to find Dr. Jaime Schehr and continue learning

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CLICK HERE TO GET ==> FREE "Freedom From Food Noise" Masterclass: https://go.elizabethmcgann.com/start

***

Get Connected with Elizabeth McGann:

Coaching Website: http://www.ElizabethMcGann.com

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/elizabethmcgann

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethMcGannWellness

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethmcgann

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElizabethMcGann

Learn more about Dr. Jaime Schehr:

Website: https://www.jaimeschehr.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaimeschehr/?hl=en

Bio.me Website: https://bio.me/

In this action-packed episode, Elizabeth sits down with Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz to unpack the biggest misconceptions surrounding menopause, and introduce the concept of using GLP-1 medications in chorus with hormone replacement therapy for positive health (and weight-release) outcomes.

An OB/GYN, Integrative Health Practitioner and author of Menopause Bootcamp, Dr. Suzanne’s insights sound like a battle cry for women to optimize their health and empower themselves and flourish as they age.

Throughout the high-energy discussion, Elizabeth and Dr. Suzanne discuss the biggest myths about menopause, and dive into the real deal about HRT—what works, what doesn’t, and what you need to know if you’re thinking about adding it to your GLP-1 journey.

If you’re interested in a holistic approach to GLP-1s, this combo could be a game changer—not just for weight loss, but for inflammation, energy and even long-term brain health. As Dr. Suzanne says, we seem to have entered the Wild West of discovering the full potential of GLP-1 agonist medications.

So if you’ve been wondering how to feel better, think clearer, and actually release weight—body, mind, and soul—you’re going to want to give this one a listen!

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CLICK HERE TO GET ==> FREE MASTERCLASS - "Freedom From Food Noise": https://go.elizabethmcgann.com/start

***

SHOW NOTES

[ 00:00 ] Meet Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz, OB/GYN, integrative health pioneer, menopause educator and fierce truth-teller.

[ 01:50 ] Not a pathology or a disease: breaking the biggest myths surrounding menopause

[ 03:00 ] Hormone Therapy as an effective tool for menopause-age women, but not for everyone

[ 05:00 ] About Menopause Bootcamp, the book and the women’s health movement

[ 08:50 ] Hormone Therapy, bioidenticals, and taking a nutritional vs. HRT approach: what’s safe, what’s hype, and what every woman needs to know before choosing.

[ 13:00 ] “I’m Doing Everything Right, But Still Struggling—Now What?” When lifestyle isn't enough and when to consider HRT

[ 17:40 ] Why You Can’t Find a Good Menopause Doctor

[ 23:00 ] Why Women Gain Belly Fat in Midlife (It’s Not Your Fault): the old dieting tricks no longer work when you are shifting into a new metabolism

[ 27:00 ] Using GLP-1 medications and Hormone Therapy synergistically: What Dr. Suzanne thinks about semaglutide, longevity and the “wild west” of peptides.

[ 30:15 ] Natural GLP-1 Support & the Role of Botanicals: how herbs and plants can support the journey—but aren’t always a replacement.

[ 32:34 ] What Dr. Suzanne Really Thinks About the Politics of Healthcare and Women’s Health: a fiery take on the current cabinet picks, deregulation and reproductive rights.

[ 36:00 ] The next 18 months: what’s next for Dr. Suzanne, her new practice launch, upcoming retreats and where to follow her online.

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Get Connected with Elizabeth McGann:

CLICK HERE TO GET ==> FREE MASTERCLASS - "Freedom From Food Noise": https://go.elizabethmcgann.com/start

Coaching Website: http://www.ElizabethMcGann.com

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/elizabethmcgann

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethMcGannWellness

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethmcgann

X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ElizabethMcGann

Learn more about Dr. Suzanne Gilberg Lenz:

Website: https://thedrsuzanne.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/askdrsuzanne/

Menopause Bootcamp on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Menopause-Bootcamp-Optimize-Empower-Flourish/dp/0063143186