Dr. Emily Cooper from the Diabesity Research Foundation just released a new edition of her book "The Metabolic Storm: The Science of Your Metabolism and Why it's Making you Fat and Possibly Infertile: PS it's not your fault."
Dr. Cooper visited KING 5 to share what's different in this book.
Dr. Cooper: This edition explains how the metabolism is not only a complex system in itself - it profoundly affects other systems, like the reproductive system and fertility. When someone is affected by obesity – the focus is usually only on the excess weight. But the weight is really just a symptom of a deeper underlying problem called metabolic dysfunction which has a significant impact throughout the body.
Joyce: The first edition got into the science of metabolism – does this expand on that?
Dr. Cooper: There is more information with more patient stories and dozens of new charts and drawings to illustrate the main points. I used this opportunity to tell the bigger story about metabolism and the exciting breakthroughs in this field.
Joyce: It isn't easy for people to find diagnosis and treatment for metabolic dysfunction. Do you offer advice to people dealing with these problems?
Dr. Cooper: There is still a knowledge deficit in medical training and practice when it comes to metabolism and it will take time for science–based treatment to become readily available. Greater public awareness will also help move things forward.
I have added self-care strategies and presented the book as a tool that can be shared with healthcare professionals. The pharmacologic section has been updated because several medications that were ‘upcoming' in the first edition are now FDA approved and available.
Joyce: And there are still new studies all time that support the information you've presented, you are always telling me about ongoing research.
Dr. Cooper: Research findings point out that deprivation diets and exercise are not the big solution they are made out to be. In fact every month new studies show that calorie restriction, combined with exercise, can have detrimental effects on future weight and body composition and on overall health. Studies show an increase in visceral fat and long-term slowing of metabolism after diets, especially in people who were in a normal weight range to start.
Joyce: Not only have you written this important book – but you have the Diabesity Research Foundation – a nonprofit, and the new Cooper Center for Metabolism. Tell us about that -
Dr. Cooper: The Foundation's goal is to increase access to effective medical care for those suffering from obesity and type 2 diabetes by advancing the science of metabolism. All proceeds for the book go to this non-profit effort.
The Cooper center for Metabolism is a state-of-the-art facility to diagnose and treat of the metabolic causes of obesity, type 2 diabetes and infertility. Hopefully together we can make a difference.
Joyce: Thank you so much Dr. Cooper, I know we'll hear more about this area.
