26: Metabolic Freedom: A Thyroid-Smart Approach to Keto & Fasting
In this episode of the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast, Dr. Izabella Wentz interviews Ben Azadi, a distinguished figure in the field of metabolic health. Known as the founder of Keto Camp and the author of several bestselling books, including his upcoming release Metabolic Freedom, Ben shares his inspiring journey from obesity to a healthy lifestyle. He aims to help others achieve metabolic flexibility and improve their overall health through natural methods. The conversation delves into the vital connection between metabolic health and mental well-being, along with practical strategies for adopting a ketogenic lifestyle. Key Learning Points: Metabolic Flexibility is the True Goal Rather than staying in continuous ketosis, Ben emphasizes the importance of metabolic flexibility — being able to efficiently switch between burning glucose and fat. This flexibility improves energy, resilience, and long-term metabolic health, especially when personalized to one’s needs, like cycling carbs for hormone support. Mitochondrial Health Drives Everything Ben explains that mitochondria aren’t just energy factories — they're intelligent sensors of stress. When overwhelmed, they trigger a "cell danger response" that can lead to chronic illness, including autoimmunity. Supporting mitochondria with ketones, glutathione, and melatonin is key for energy, mood, and thyroid function. Liver Function is a Keto Dealbreaker A sluggish liver can sabotage the ketogenic transition by impairing fat digestion. Ben recommends prepping with bitter foods like arugula and apple cider vinegar, and in some cases, using ox bile or castor oil packs to improve bile flow and detoxification — especially important for people with thyroid issues. Dairy-Free Keto is Often a Key Component to Keto Success in Hashimoto’s. Many people hit a wall with keto due to hidden food sensitivities — especially to dairy — which can trigger inflammation, hormone imbalances, or stalled weight loss. Removing dairy can ease congestion, support clearer skin, and reduce bloating Fasting for Women Requires Strategy Fasting is not inherently harmful for women or those with thyroid issues, but it must be introduced gradually and strategically. Ben advises monitoring HRV (heart rate variability) as a marker for resilience and recommends premenstrual carb cycling to support progesterone production and hormonal balance. Hypoglycemia Can Be Reversed with the Right Keto Entry Many with Hashimoto’s or adrenal issues experience hypoglycemia, making keto or fasting initially difficult. Ben suggests a “low and slow” approach — gradually reducing carbs, increasing nutrient-dense fats, and possibly using supplements like chromium, magnesium, or carnitine to ease the transition and stabilize blood sugar. Be sure to subscribe to the Thyroid Pharmacist Healing Conversations podcast so you don’t miss an episode! Sign up for the Thyroid Pharmacist Weekly Thyroid Solutions Newsletter here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/gift/ For the full list of resources and products mentioned in this episode, and to get the full episode transcript, see complete show notes here. https://thyroidpharmacist.com/articles/podcast/