True Fasting vs. Intermittent Eating: How Insulin & Autophagy Drive Metabolic Health with Dr. Don Clum

In this episode of Decoding Health, Dr. Urban A. Kiernan is joined by Dr. Don Clum for an in-depth, science-driven discussion on fasting, insulin regulation, and metabolic health—cutting through popular misconceptions to explain what fasting actually is and how it impacts the body.

The conversation begins with how early insulin research led to modern fasting protocols and clarifies the difference between time-restricted eating, intermittent fasting, and true fasting. Dr. Clum explains why fasting is an intentional physiological state—not starvation—and how the body shifts between growth and repair depending on nutrient availability. The episode explores when fasting benefits truly begin, how insulin suppression alters cortisol response, and why autophagy plays a central role in cellular repair and metabolic resilience.

Listeners will gain a clearer understanding of fasting duration, measurable biomarkers, hormonal responses, and why supplementation alone—such as simply taking vitamin D—cannot replace metabolic signaling. The discussion also highlights fasting’s role in retraining the body’s relationship with food, stress, and recovery, while emphasizing responsible application, biological context, and individual variability.

This episode provides a grounded framework for understanding fasting as a metabolic tool—rooted in physiology, timing, and intent—rather than trend-based restriction.