Metabolic Mindset

A Pro-Metabolic Perspective on Cholesterol and Statins Part 2

In Part 2 of the cholesterol series, we're taking a deeper look at why cholesterol labs are often misunderstood and why context matters when evaluating cardiovascular risk. We'll break down markers like LDL, HDL, triglycerides, ApoB, and ApoA1, discuss the role of inflammation and metabolic health, and explore why two people with similar cholesterol numbers can have very different risk profiles. We'll also dive into statins—how they work, why they're so heavily debated, and the situations where they may provide meaningful benefit. Finally, we'll discuss how to improve cholesterol markers through a pro-metabolic lens by focusing on the underlying metabolic environment rather than simply chasing lower numbers. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2562527/support] Work with me at Nourish (covered by insurance, often $0): https://signup.nourish.com/providers/shara-perry?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Shara+Perry&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Shara_Perry

A Pro-Metabolic Perspective on Cholesterol and Statins Part 1

In Part 1 of this cholesterol series on Metabolic Mindset, I break down what cholesterol actually does in the body, how lipoproteins like LDL and HDL function, and why cholesterol labs are often misunderstood without proper context. I also explore the relationship between inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and cardiovascular risk — and why a single lab marker rarely tells the full story. In other words, this podcast is an attempt to explain cholesterol in the context of human metabolism. Topics covered: • LDL and HDL explained simply • Cholesterol transport and lipoprotein basics • What cholesterol actually does in the body • Why context matters when interpreting labs • Inflammation, metabolism, and heart health Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2562527/support] Work with me at Nourish (covered by insurance, often $0): https://signup.nourish.com/providers/shara-perry?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Shara+Perry&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Shara_Perry

Metabolism Over Dogma: Why We Both Moved Beyond Low Carb

In this episode of Metabolic Mindset, I’m joined by Zane Griggs (@zanegriggsfitness), a long-time personal trainer and host of the Healthy AF Podcast. Zane and I met years ago when we were both deep in the low carb world. Since then, we’ve independently shifted toward a more pro-metabolic, physiology-first approach to nutrition and training. This conversation is about what actually works for our clients. We break down why restrictive frameworks like keto or low carb can initially “work,” the psychological pull of diet camps, and what happens when identity becomes tied to a way of eating. More importantly, we talk about what changed our minds—and the client results that forced us to rethink everything. We also dive into: *  Why under-fueling and overtraining stalls fat loss  *  How higher carbohydrate, lower fat approaches can improve insulin sensitivity  *  Real client transformations (including improved A1C on higher carb intake)  *  Pre- and post-workout nutrition for performance and recovery  *  Common mistakes people make when trying to “optimize” their metabolism  If you’ve ever felt stuck between conflicting nutrition philosophies, this episode will help you step back, think critically, and start trusting physiology over dogma. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2562527/support] Work with me at Nourish (covered by insurance, often $0): https://signup.nourish.com/providers/shara-perry?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Shara+Perry&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Shara_Perry

Taurine: Energy Regulation, Not Stimulation

Taurine is one of the most misunderstood nutrients in modern nutrition—often associated with energy drinks, but rarely understood for what it actually does in the body. In this episode of Metabolic Mindset, I discuss the physiology of taurine and why it plays a critical role in metabolic health. From cardiovascular function and calcium signaling to nervous system regulation, electrolyte balance, and bile production, taurine supports the systems that allow your metabolism to function efficiently. I also cover where taurine comes from, how it was discovered, key research-backed benefits, and how to effectively use it as a supplement—including dosing, timing, and forms. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2562527/support] Work with me at Nourish (covered by insurance, often $0): https://signup.nourish.com/providers/shara-perry?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Shara+Perry&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Shara_Perry

Why Overtraining Is Not Helping You Lose Fat

In this episode of Metabolic Mindset, Registered Dietitian Shara Perry breaks down why more exercise isn’t always the answer for fat loss. Chronic high-intensity training, under-fueling, and elevated cortisol can actually stall fat loss by breaking down muscle, lowering metabolic rate, and signaling the body to hold onto energy. Shara explains the physiology behind Zone 1 and Zone 2 cardio, how they support mitochondrial health, fat oxidation, and cortisol regulation, and why lower-stress training can be far more effective for sustainable fat loss and muscle retention. If you’ve been working harder but seeing fewer results, this episode will help you understand why — and how to train in a way that actually supports your metabolism. Brain fart sponsored by Pfizer. Here's that information I blanked on mid-episode: Aerobic exercise ("with oxygen") is sustained, moderate-intensity activity (e.g., jogging, swimming) that improves cardiovascular endurance and burns fat. Anaerobic exercise ("without oxygen") consists of short, high-intensity bursts (e.g., sprinting, lifting) that build muscle, power, and bone density. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2562527/support] Work with me at Nourish (covered by insurance, often $0): https://signup.nourish.com/providers/shara-perry?referralSource=Nourish+dietitian&referralName=Shara+Perry&utm_source=Nourish_dietitian&utm_term=Shara_Perry