The Hidden Metabolic Crisis Affecting Millions of Southeast Asians

South Asians develop heart disease, diabetes, and metabolic dysfunction at dramatically higher rates than almost any other population—but why?In this episode, Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj is joined by functional medicine practitioner Shefaly Ravula to unpack the unique biology behind South Asian metabolic health. Together they explore the "thrifty gene" hypothesis, insulin resistance, muscle loss, continuous glucose monitoring (CGMs), gut health, personalized nutrition, cholesterol testing, and why traditional risk factors often miss the bigger picture.They also discuss practical strategies for improving metabolic health, including building muscle, optimizing protein intake, improving blood sugar regulation, interpreting advanced lipid testing, and adapting traditional Indian foods without abandoning cultural identity.Whether you're South Asian or simply interested in longevity, prevention, and precision medicine, this conversation offers actionable insights into one of today's biggest health challenges.Together they discuss: Why South Asians have unique metabolic risks  The truth about insulin resistance  Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)  Muscle, longevity, and blood sugar  Advanced cholesterol testing  Functional medicine vs conventional medicine  Gut health and inflammation  Traditional Indian diets  Protein myths  Precision nutritionTimestamps00:00 Introduction01:00 Meet Shefaly Ravula02:15 From Gastroenterology to Functional Medicine05:30 Why Lifestyle Medicine Comes First07:00 Precision Medicine vs Traditional Medicine08:20 Why South Asians Develop Heart Disease Earlier10:30 The Thrifty Gene Hypothesis13:00 Why "Skinny" Doesn't Mean Healthy15:15 The Muscle Deficit in South Asians17:00 Continuous Glucose Monitors Explained21:00 Why HbA1c Isn't Enough23:30 Should Healthy People Wear CGMs?26:30 The Functional Medicine Lab Panel31:00 The Indian Diet Problem38:00 Protein, Muscle & Longevity41:00 White Rice vs Brown Rice45:00 Cooking Oils: Seed Oils, Ghee & Olive Oil50:00 Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science