#59. Functional Fasting for Real Metabolic Healing with Dr. Don Clum
Description
What if fasting isn’t about deprivation—but about giving your body the control it needs to heal?
Dr. Leona Allen is joined by Dr. Don Clum, fasting expert and creator of the Insulin Friendly Living Model, to break down the myths and misconceptions surrounding fasting and how to use it as a powerful tool for long-term metabolic healing.
From overcoming chronic illness to navigating extended fasts safely, this episode delivers the real deal on functional fasting—why it works, how to do it right, and what most people get wrong. If you’ve ever struggled with fatigue, inflammation, stubborn weight, or failed fasting attempts, this conversation will transform the way you see your health.
You’ll Learn:
The difference between true fasting and what most people are calling fasting today
Why fasting is not about willpower, but about preparation and support
The 5-step process to properly prepare for an extended fast
What makes a fast “functional”—and how to fit it into a busy lifestyle
How fasting can reverse inflammation, insulin resistance, and other metabolic issues
What to avoid before, during, and after a fast to prevent detox symptoms or failure
How to develop a fasting practice that supports your metabolism—not stress it
In this episode:
00:00 – Why Fasting Works: Intro to Dr. Don Clum & Metabolic Healing
Discover how Dr. Don Clum’s health crisis led to his revolutionary fasting approach—and why timing matters as much as nutrition.
02:16 – From Pain to Purpose: Dr. Clum’s Personal Journey into Functional Fasting
Dr. Clum shares how fasting helped him overcome serious health challenges and why he’s dedicated his life to teaching others.
09:41 – The Evolution of Fasting in Healthcare: From Fringe to Mainstream
How fasting went from taboo to trending—and why most people still misunderstand what fasting truly is.
18:50 – How to Prepare for a Fast: The 5 Critical Steps Most People Skip
Learn the exact process to avoid headaches, cravings, and discomfort—so your fast actually works.
29:18 – Fasting for Weight Loss, Hormones & Metabolic Health (Without the Myths)
Why fasting isn’t starvation, and how it can help reverse insulin resistance, inflammation, and stubborn weight gain.
35:45 – Long-Term Fasting: How to Do It Safely, Effectively, and Without Misery
The real difference between a dangerous fast and a transformational one—and why mindset, support, and planning are everything.
55:17 – Resources, Final Thoughts, and Why Anyone Can Learn to Fast
Dr. Clum offers parting wisdom and shares free tools you can use to begin your own healing journey today.
Connect with Dr. Don Clum:
Website: https://insulinfriendlyliving.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/don.clum.10
Dr. Clum's Functional Fasting Starter Package includes:
Low Oxalate Food List - Essential guide for optimal fasting preparation
Insulin Friendly Food Guide - Strategic food choices for metabolic health
Five Step Preparation for Extended Fasting Mini-Course - Comprehensive video series
Faster's User Guide - Including calendar templates and planning tools
Get your copy here: Fasting Tutorial & Free Resources
Connect with Dr. Leona
Watch THIS Before Trying Another Diet, Exercise Routine, Or Weight Loss Program: https://beginhealingtoday.com/
I'm making a deal with you to help you remove the physical, chemical, and emotional barriers that are holding you back from getting well. All I need from you is to feel, deal, and heal. Those are the terms, that is the heal deal!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, seal the deal to heal by leaving a review and sharing with a friend.
Thank you for listening! Until next time, go out there and achieve more freedom in your health and your life. Take care!
Dr. Leona
Host, The Heal Deal Podcast
Founder, Freedom Health Systems
Author, A Journey to Healing
Author, Freedom in Chains
Author, Shop & Savor
Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, exercise, or health regimen, especially if you're taking medications or have underlying health conditions.
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