LIVE with The Famous Dr AL and Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz artwork
LIVE with The Famous Dr. AL

LIVE with The Famous Dr AL and Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz

  • S3E224
  • 26:11
  • February 28th 2025

Understanding GLP-1 Drugs and Supporting Muscle Health with Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz

Guest Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz, a pharmacist with a postdoctoral residency in integrative medicine and co-founder of the Integrative Health Pharmacy Residency Program. Named one of the 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy in 2023, Dr. Swathi is a trailblazer in healthcare innovation.

What Are GLP-1 Drugs?

Dr. Swathi explains GLP-1 drugs, a class of medications derived from glucagon-like peptide 1 hormones. These medications regulate blood sugar and appetite and were initially FDA-approved for managing Type 2 diabetes. Popular drugs in this category include:

  • Ozempic (semaglutide): Approved for Type 2 diabetes.
  • Wegovy: A higher dose aimed at appetite suppression and weight loss.

Risks Associated with GLP-1 Drugs

Dr. Swathi discusses common and lesser-known risks of GLP-1 drugs:

  1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, and delayed stomach emptying.
  2. Off-Label Misuse: Use by individuals outside approved populations.
  3. Mental Health Concerns: Potential adverse effects.
  4. Muscle Loss: Accelerated loss of muscle mass, impacting quality of life.

Supporting Muscle Health

Dr. Swathi highlights the importance of preserving muscle health, especially for aging individuals or those on GLP-1 drugs. Her recommendations include:

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in salmon, chia seeds, or fish oil supplements.
  • Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs): Prevent muscle breakdown and support protein synthesis.
  • Fortetropin (MyosMD): A natural compound from fertilized egg yolks that boosts muscle protein synthesis.

Dietary Strategies

For individuals on GLP-1 drugs, Dr. Swathi recommends:

  • Eating small, frequent meals with a focus on whole foods.
  • Prioritizing high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Considering prebiotic fibers to support gut health.

New and Emerging Drugs

Dr. Swathi introduces other groundbreaking drug classes, such as PCSK9 inhibitors for managing cholesterol in individuals with familial high cholesterol.

Supplements and Clinical Research

Dr. Swathi emphasizes the importance of selecting supplements backed by clinical research and regulated for safety and efficacy.

Connect with Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz

  • Instagram and LinkedIn: Search for her name to stay updated.
  • Website: Visit www.myosmd.com for educational resources on muscle health and longevity.

Closing Remarks

Dr. Allen Lycka thanks Dr. Swathi for her insights and encourages listeners to visit his website, www.drallenlycka.com, for more information on living a fantastic life.

BIO:

Dr. Swathi Varanasi-Diaz, Pharm.D., is a trailblazing healthcare innovator and the first U.S. pharmacist to complete a postdoctoral residency in integrative medicine. Co-founder of the Integrative Health Pharmacy Residency Program, she combines expertise in biotech, personalized medicine, and clinical research to revolutionize patient care. Named one of the 50 Most Influential Leaders in Pharmacy in 2023, Dr. Swathi is a sought-after advisor, lecturer, and published researcher driving healthcare innovation forward.

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/doctorswathi/  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swathi-varanasi/   

Website: https://myosmd.com/ or https://myosmd.com/pages/medical-advisors 

LIVE with The Famous Dr. AL

Discover the golden pearls of wisdom within you! Dr. Allen Lycka has been acknowledged as one of the leading cosmetic dermatologists in the world. A pioneer in cosmetic surgery, he helped develop several new technologies and has spoken at podiums worldwide. In 2003, Dr. Lycka was diagnosed with ALS and given six months to live. After courageously fighting the diagnosis, he is here today as a result of his courage, determination, and tenacity. Dr. Lycka used his experience to co-author "The Secrets To Living A Fantastic Life" with a foreword by #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author Jack Canfield, author of Chicken Soup For The Soul.

Brushwood Media Network is thrilled to congratulate Dr. Allen Lycka on reaching a remarkable milestone—his 500th episode of the popular series "How To Live a Fantastic Life." Dr. Lycka's inspiring show has become a staple for listeners seeking advice on living their best lives, and this milestone is a testament to his dedication and the impact of his work.

“LIVE with The Famous Dr. AL” will offer a dynamic blend of features, ensuring that each episode provides something unique and exciting. Listeners can look forward to intriguing conversations with authors, captivating lifestyle stories, travel and food adventures, exclusive celebrity insights, and the latest in beauty secrets.

Dr. Lycka has an incredible ability to connect with his audience and provide valuable insights that inspire and uplift. Don't miss out on the fun and inspiration. Dr. Lycka also has the #1 syndicated radio shows How to Live A Fantastic Life, Doc Fix That, and Driving Biz, on the Brushwood Media Network, with millions of listeners each month.

Dr. Allen Steven Lycka avatar
Dr. Allen Steven Lycka
Host

    Dr. Allen Steven Lycka was acknowledged as one of the leading cosmetic dermatologists in the world for three decades. A pioneer in cosmetic surgery, he helped to develop laser-assisted tumescent liposuction – an advanced body sculpture technique, and Moh’s Micrographic Surgery, an advanced means of removing skin cancer with 99% success. He has lived and practiced in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada since 1989. He’s written 17 books, 30+ academic papers and hosted the number one internet radio show in the world – Inside Cosmetic Surgery Today. He is a co-founder of Doctors for the “Practice of Safe and Ethical Aesthetic Medicine” and founder of The Canadian Skin Cancer Association. He won the prestigious Consumers Choice Award For Cosmetic Surgery for 16 consecutive years.

    In 2003, Dr. Lycka’s life changed drastically when he suddenly developed a right foot drop while on vacation with his family at Disneyland. He promised his wife he would explore it, and after seeing many doctors was misdiagnosed with having ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease). Still, he maintained his status as a leading cosmetic doctor for 30 years. He later discovered he has Chronic Lyme disease.

    Because of what he learned through his experience, he left his practice and co-authored the bestselling book, “The Secrets To Living A Fantastic Life” with Harriet Tinka, a former fashion model and Woman of Distinction.

    He has also authored two more books: one with Corie Poirier entitled, “bLU Talks Presents: Business, Life and the Universe” and one with Jack Canfield entitled, “The Pillars of Success.” Both books also became bestsellers during the Covid crisis in 2020. Currently acknowledged as a leading expert in Living A Fantastic Life and Turning Points, he is a transformational speaker, thought leader, coach, and mentor.

    Dr. Lycka is happily married to Dr. Lucie Bernier-Lycka for 38 years and they have four lovely daughters and seven beautiful grandchildren. He counts his family as his most important accomplishment.