In our introductory lecture, we begin to explore the metabolic origins of chronic disease and the concept of metabolic health. Dr. Benjamin Bikman delves into two key definitions of metabolic health - metabolic syndrome and metabolic flexibility - while introducing insulin as a crucial hormone in metabolic regulation. The discussion focuses on three primary causes of insulin resistance, emphasizing the critical role of insulin in regulating various bodily processes and the consequences of its dysfunction.

In lecture two, we examine the factors contributing to the development of insulin resistance including hyperinsulinemia, inflammation, and personal fat thresholds. We also learn about different types of fat tissue (white, brown, and beige), and their function and roles in metabolism. The lecture addresses secondary causes that contribute to insulin resistance such as refined seed oils, uric acid, and sleep deprivation, while distinguishing between pathological and physiological insulin resistance during periods of growth such as puberty and pregnancy.

In lecture three, Dr. Bikman discusses the consequences of insulin resistance, focusing on its role in major chronic diseases. The lecture delves into how insulin resistance affects various body systems, particularly examining its relationship with type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. The discussion challenges conventional views about cholesterol and saturated fats, presenting evidence that suggests insulin resistance, rather than cholesterol levels, may be the primary driver of cardiovascular disease.