The Obesity Doctor Podcast

Dr. Sasha High
  • 5.0 (35)
  • Medicine

Weight, health, and metabolism — without extremes or oversimplification. Hosted by Internal Medicine and Obesity Physician Dr. Sasha High, this podcast explores the biology of weight, the reality of behaviour change, and the nuance often missing from mainstream conversations. From GLP1 medications to emotional eating, from metabolic health to mindset, you'll get practical, evidence-based insights without extremes or oversimplification. This podcast is for those who want to understand their bodies, make sustainable changes, and build health that lasts. FOLLOW Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sashahighmd/ WORK WITH ME Obesity Medicine Clinic in Ontario, Canada - https://www.highmetabolicclinic.com Best Weight for Women - https://www.sashahighmd.com/bestweight Recover Strong for Binge Eating - https://www.sashahighmd.com/bed

  1. 3d ago

    183. How to Eat Well on GLP-1s - Part 1: Preserving Muscle & Managing Side Effects

    GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Mounjaro, and Zepbound are changing the conversation around obesity and weight loss — but there’s one major problem: most people are starting these medications with little to no guidance on how to properly nourish their body while taking them.And that matters.Because while GLP-1s can be incredibly effective tools for weight loss, they can also lead to muscle loss, under-eating, fatigue, nausea, hair loss, and long-term metabolic issues when nutrition is neglected.In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the biggest nutrition mistakes people make on GLP-1 medications — and exactly how to protect your metabolism, preserve muscle, maintain energy, and build sustainable habits while losing weight.We’ll cover:- Why protein becomes non-negotiable on GLP-1 medications- How much protein you actually need- The hidden dangers of under-eating- Why rapid weight loss can harm your metabolism- How to preserve muscle while losing fat- The critical role of strength training- What to do if you have no appetite- Tips for nausea and food aversions- How to create sustainable eating habits while on GLP-1s- Rebuilding a healthier relationship with foodThis episode is especially important if you’ve ever thought:“I’m barely eating… so why do I feel exhausted?”“Why am I losing muscle instead of just fat?”“How do I hit my protein goals when I’m never hungry?”GLP-1 medications are not magic — but when combined with proper nutrition and lifestyle support, they can become powerful tools for long-term health.If you’re currently taking a GLP-1 medication, considering one, or supporting someone who is, this episode is a must-listen.And if you’re looking for support along your journey, Dr. Sasha High and I would love to welcome you into our women’s coaching program, Best Weight, where we openly discuss treatment options like GLP-1 medications and help women build sustainable, healthy weight loss habits together. WORK WITH US:O​​ntario-Wide Virtual Obesity Management Clinichttps://www.highmetabolicclinic.comJoin my Weight Loss Coaching Program for women, Best Weight https://www.sashahighmd.com/bestweightRecover Strong for Binge Eatinghttps://www.sashahighmd.com/bedTaking the first step toward weight loss can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. I’ve created a curated list of my podcast episodes to gently guide you as you begin your journey. https://www.sashahighmd.com/podcast-guideFOLLOW SASHAInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/sashahighmd/ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:BMI CalculatorBasal Metabolic Rate Calculator(BMR) REFERENCES:Carbone, J. W., & Pasiakos, S. M. (2019). Dietary Protein and Muscle Mass: Translating Science to Application and Health Benefit. Nutrients, 11(5), 1136. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11051136 McCarthy, D., & Berg, A. (2021). Weight Loss Strategies and the Risk of Skeletal Muscle Mass Loss. Nutrients, 13(7), 2473. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13072473 Scott Butsch, W., Sulo, S., Chang, A. T., Kim, J. A., Kerr, K. W., Williams, D. R., Hegazi, R., Panchalingam, T., Goates, S., & Heymsfield, S. B. (2025). Nutritional deficiencies and muscle loss in adults with type 2 diabetes using GLP-1 receptor agonists: A retrospective observational study. Obesity pillars, 15, 100186. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.obpill.2025.100186

    23 min

  2. May 25

    182. Dismantling Diet Culture with Psychotherapist Brian Baumal

    Brian Baumal lost 100 pounds, and more importantly, he’s kept it off for over 14 years.But what he really understands is this: it’s not a lack of knowledge that keeps people stuck, it’s the psychology. The urgency that drives all-or-nothing thinking.Brian works as a Toronto-based psychotherapist and is the guest on today’s episode of THE OBESITY DOCTOR PODCAST. We break down why urgency isn’t discipline, and what actually works if you want change to last.Work with Brian:https://alivapsychotherapy.com/WORK WITH MEO​​ntario-Wide Virtual Obesity Management Clinichttps://www.highmetabolicclinic.comJoin my Weight Loss Coaching Program for women, Best Weight https://www.sashahighmd.com/bestweightRecover Strong for Binge Eatinghttps://www.sashahighmd.com/bedTaking the first step toward weight loss can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. I’ve created a curated list of my podcast episodes to gently guide you as you begin your journey. https://www.sashahighmd.com/podcast-guideFOLLOW SASHAInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/sashahighmd/

    41 min

  3. May 19

    181. Balancing Social Eating & Weight Loss This Summer

    In today’s episode, we’re talking about one of the biggest challenges during a weight loss journey — balancing social eating while still making progress.With summer approaching, there are naturally more opportunities for eating out, patio dinners, vacations, parties, and weekend plans. Many people feel confident and consistent during the week, but struggle when social events come up and feel like their progress gets completely derailed.In this episode, Tedi Glik, RD will cover:- Why there is no such thing as a “cheat meal”- How to build balanced meals even when eating out- The importance of protein and veggies at social meals- Why skipping meals before dinner outings backfires- How restriction leads to overeating Letting go of the “good” vs. “bad” food mentality- How scarcity around food increases cravings and binge eating- Tips for navigating pizza nights, desserts, restaurant meals, and alcohol- How to enjoy flexibility without guilt while still supporting your goalsThe goal is learning how to make healthy eating sustainable in real life — not just during perfect weeks at home.WORK WITH US:Join my Weight Loss Coaching Program for women, Best Weight https://www.sashahighmd.com/bestweightRecover Strong for Binge Eatinghttps://www.sashahighmd.com/bedO​​ntario-Wide Virtual Obesity Management Clinichttps://www.highmetabolicclinic.comTaking the first step toward weight loss can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. I’ve created a curated list of my podcast episodes to gently guide you as you begin your journey. https://www.sashahighmd.com/podcast-guideFOLLOW SASHAInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/sashahighmd/

    14 min

  4. May 11

    180. The Realities of Bariatric Surgery: Risks, Benefits, and Options with Dr. Laz Klein

    Bariatric surgery is one of the most effective tools we have in obesity medicine—and also one of the most misunderstood.In this episode, I’m diving into where surgery truly fits in the treatment of obesity and metabolic health. While we often focus on medical therapies like GLP-1s, it’s important to understand the role bariatric surgery can play—and why it continues to be underutilized or dismissed by many patients.I’m joined by Toronto-based bariatric surgeon Dr. Lazar Klein, who shares his expertise on what bariatric surgery actually involves, who it’s for, and how it fits into a comprehensive, long-term approach to care. We walk through the most common procedures available — including gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and duodenal switch variations — and clarify why older procedures like gastric banding are no longer recommended.Dr. Klein addresses common fears around surgery, including concerns about surgical complications, dumping syndrome and lifelong changes, while offering a realistic and balanced perspective on risk.We explore the long-term outcomes as well—how surgery impacts conditions like type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and cancer and even mortality, and what the evidence shows about weight maintenance years down the road.If bariatric surgery has ever felt confusing, intimidating, or “not for you,” this episode will help bring clarity to the conversation.Resources & LinksOntario Bariatric Networkhttps://www.ontariobariatricnetwork.ca/High Metabolic Clinichttps://www.highmetabolicclinic.com/

    35 min

  5. May 4

    179. Generic Semaglutide — What We Know, What We Don’t, and What Matters as of May 2026

    In this episode, I walk through what’s actually happening with generic semaglutide right now—and what it means for you in real life, not just in headlines. I explain where semaglutide fits in the bigger picture, how it compares to tirzepatide, and why generics are entering the market now. I also break down what “bioequivalence” really means—and why that nuance matters when it comes to effectiveness and side effects. I talk about early pricing estimates, what we might see happen with brand-name costs, and how pharmacy-level substitution could impact what patients are actually given. We get into the practical questions I’m already hearing: what the devices will look like, whether dosing will feel the same, and how switching between products might affect different patients. I also share how I’m thinking about this clinically—who will likely transition easily, and who may need a more cautious, individualized approach. And importantly, I address a growing issue: access to medication is not the same as access to care. Obesity treatment is more than a prescription—it’s ongoing, structured medical care. Bottom line: I’m genuinely encouraged by the potential for improved access—but your treatment should still be guided by your individual response, not just what’s available. This is an evolving space, and I’ll keep you updated as we learn more. WORK WITH ME O​​ntario-Wide Virtual Obesity Management Clinic https://www.highmetabolicclinic.com Join my Healthy Lifestyle Coaching Program for women, Best Weight https://www.sashahighmd.com/bestweight Binge Eating Disorder Treatment - https://www.sashahighmd.com/bed Taking the first step toward weight loss can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. I’ve created a curated list of my podcast episodes to gently guide you as you begin your journey. https://www.sashahighmd.com/podcast-guide FOLLOW ME on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sashahighmd/

    24 min

  6. Apr 27

    178. Using Visualization, Imagery, and Identity Work to Support Long-Term Health Motivation with Psychotherapist Margo Green

    Long-term change isn’t just about knowing what to do—it’s about how we see ourselves while we’re doing it. In today’s podcast episode, we explore why so many people get stuck in that gap between where we are and who we’re trying to become.I’m joined by Registered Psychotherapist Margo Green, and we talk about how visualization and imagery can make the future feel more real and connected to who you are today. We also dive into identity-based motivation, and how the way you see yourself quietly shapes your behaviours—often more than motivation ever does.We cover practical ways to use these tools during difficult moments, and how to begin shifting identity in a realistic, sustainable way.Key takeaway: Motivation fades, but identity drives behaviour.If you’re feeling stuck, start with one small shift in how you see yourself—and take action from there.If you’d like therapy support from Margo, you can find her at:www.highmetabolicclinic.com/psychotherapy

    34 min

  7. Apr 20

    177. Dietitians Tell All: The Truth About Eating for Weight Loss

    In this episode of the Obesity Physician Podcast, the dietitians from High Metabolic Health—Nada, Lauren, and Tedi—break down what actually works when it comes to eating for weight loss. If you’re tired of restrictive diets and conflicting nutrition advice, this conversation focuses on practical, sustainable principles instead of quick fixes. The team shares how to build a solid foundation for long-term success, including how to structure your meals, what foods to prioritize (and limit), and where to begin your journey toward better metabolic health. What You’ll Learn - Why dieting often fails—and what to focus on instead- The core eating foundations for sustainable weight loss- How to build a plate that keeps you full, satisfied, and energized- Key foods to prioritize for metabolic health- Foods and habits to limit (without strict restriction)- Simple, realistic starting points for your weight loss journeyWORK WITH OUR DIETITIANShttps://www.highmetabolicclinic.com/nutritionWORK WITH MEJoin my Weight Loss Coaching Program for women, Best Weighthttps://www.sashahighmd.com/bestweightRecover Strong for Binge Eatinghttps://www.sashahighmd.com/bedO​​ntario-Wide Virtual Obesity Management Clinichttps://www.highmetabolicclinic.comTaking the first step toward weight loss can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to do it alone. I’ve created a curated list of my podcast episodes to gently guide you as you begin your journey. https://www.sashahighmd.com/podcast-guideFOLLOW SASHAInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/sashahighmd/

    46 min

  8. Apr 13

    176. GLP‑1 Side Effects: Everything You Need to Know from an Obesity Doctor

    In this episode, I break down everything you need to know about GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro—including the real-world side effects I see in clinical practice. While these medications can be incredibly effective for improving metabolic health, there’s often confusion online: some people are scared away by exaggerated side effect stories, while others underestimate what to expect when starting treatment. My goal here is to give a balanced, evidence-informed perspective so patients can make informed decisions without fear or misinformation. This episode is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalized medical advice. Always speak with your licensed healthcare provider before starting or changing any treatment. We cover side effects and how to manage them, like: Nausea, bloating, diarrhea, constipation Sulphur burps and reflux Appetite suppression and food aversions Injection site reactions Gallbladder disease Hair thinning Ozempic face Rare: NAION If you’re in Ontario and need support with obesity or metabolic health, you can request a referral to my multidisciplinary clinic, the High Metabolic Clinic. Learn more at www.highmetabolicclinic.com.

    27 min
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About

Weight, health, and metabolism — without extremes or oversimplification. Hosted by Internal Medicine and Obesity Physician Dr. Sasha High, this podcast explores the biology of weight, the reality of behaviour change, and the nuance often missing from mainstream conversations. From GLP1 medications to emotional eating, from metabolic health to mindset, you'll get practical, evidence-based insights without extremes or oversimplification. This podcast is for those who want to understand their bodies, make sustainable changes, and build health that lasts. FOLLOW Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sashahighmd/ WORK WITH ME Obesity Medicine Clinic in Ontario, Canada - https://www.highmetabolicclinic.com Best Weight for Women - https://www.sashahighmd.com/bestweight Recover Strong for Binge Eating - https://www.sashahighmd.com/bed

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