In this “Ask Me Anything” (AMA) episode, Peter and Bob discuss different methods to evaluate body composition. They explore ways of measuring body fat, delineating between subcutaneous and visceral fat, and go over best strategies for improving body composition and optimizing health. They also discuss insulin resistance using a patient case study that highlights interventions capable of reversing the condition. Finally, Peter addresses his level of concern about a recent Consumer Report finding that Topo Chico had the highest levels of a class of synthetic chemicals (PFAS) of all the carbonated bottled waters tested. Peter concludes by sharing if the finding will change his consumption habits. If you’re not a subscriber and listening on a podcast player, you’ll only be able to hear a preview of the AMA. If you’re a subscriber, you can now listen to this full episode on your private RSS feed or on our website at the AMA #17 show notes page. If you are not a subscriber, you can learn more about the subscriber benefits here.

We discuss:

Body mass index (BMI) vs. body fat percentage (BF%) (1:45);
Methods of assessing body fat—Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (6:25);
The different types of body fat (9:00);
Methods of assessing body fat—Computed Tomography (CT Scan) (12:00);
Methods of assessing body fat—Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) (14:30);
Methods of assessing body fat—Hydrostatic/Underwater Weighing (19:25);
Methods of assessing body fat—Air Displacement (Bod Pod) (22:25);
Methods of assessing body fat—Skinfold measurement (23:55);
Methods of assessing body fat—Total Body Water (27:15);
Methods of assessing body fat—Bioelectrical Impedance (BIA) (28:45);
The optimal body fat percentage, muscle mass, and the best strategy to improve body composition (31:30);
Defining insulin resistance and the steps to reverse it (40:15);
Patient case study: Reversing insulin resistance (49:00);
Addressing the recent finding of high levels of PFOA in Topo Chico (58:25); and
More.

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#136 - AMA #17: Body composition methods tour de force, insulin resistance, and Topo Chico

The Peter Attia Drive