Writing a book is never a solitary journey. It begins with a spark of inspiration, and is nurtured by countless conversations, extensive research, and an unwavering desire to make a difference in a world that is suffering. When I first envisioned Metabolic Freedom, I had no clear road map, but I committed to the journey, trusting that creativity would follow commitment. Reflecting on this process, I realize how fortunate I am to have the support of some of the world’s leading thinkers, who have helped shape the ideas presented in these pages.
First and foremost, I want to acknowledge the Keto Kampers around the globe who engage with my social media content. To the millions who have watched my videos and listened to my podcast, thank you for your questions and comments. I know many of you feel lost, hopeless, and overwhelmed in your journey to heal your bodies, and I am deeply grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me. I commend you for taking control of your health. Reading about your victories and successes brings me immense joy, and my team and I celebrate them often. You are living proof of the body’s incredible ability to heal itself.
In 2018, I attended a seminar in Boca Raton, Florida, hosted by Dr. Daniel Pompa. I remember it vividly. Within the first hour of hearing Dr. Pompa speak, I learned more about the body’s healing potential than I had in a decade of studying nutrition. It felt as though he had completely reshaped my understanding of health, turning everything I thought I knew upside down. I told myself, “I want to learn everything he knows, and I want him to teach me.” As Don Miguel Ruiz says in The Four Agreements, “Be impeccable with your word.” I truly believe in the power of language, and shortly after making this declaration, I was personally mentored by Dr. Pompa. I had the privilege of working alongside more than 50 brilliant doctors and health practitioners through The Health Centers of the Future Platinum program. I’ve shared the stage with Dr. Pompa many times, and he has honored me by calling me his “greatest student ever.” Dr. Pompa has been a tremendous inspiration, and this book would not have been completed without his brilliant work.
To my amazing team, who work tirelessly alongside me to serve our community: If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. You are the best team I could have dreamed of. Thank you for joining me in this mission—I am forever grateful. Alina, Jonathan, Becky, Andrea, Sofia, Jeremy, Ian, Kamran, Christy, and Ada, thank you for your dedication to making a dent in disease.
A huge shoutout to all the incredible colleagues and mentors who have helped me piece together the metabolic puzzle. It has been an honor learning from each of you. Your research, friendship, and mentorship have been invaluable in helping me transform the lives of millions. A special thanks to Dr. Mindy Pelz, Dr. Jason Fung, Megan Ramos, Cynthia Thurlow, Reed Davis, Sean Croxton, Dr. Ben Bikman, Mark Sisson, David Asarnow, Shawn Wells, JJ Virgin, Roy Cammarano, Warren Phillips, Dr. Cate Shanahan, Dr. Will Cole, Dave Asprey, Ben Greenfield, Dr John Lieurance, Dr. Eric Berg and Dr. Ken Berry—your influence is deeply woven into my work.
Finally, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my family and close friends. Your belief in me has been the oxygen to my soul. To my mom, Haddi: Your sacrifice to immigrate to the United States from the Middle East has given me a life of freedom and opportunity. You are the most caring, unselfish person I have ever met. Thank you for your tremendous love and support. To my future wife, Natassia: Sharing my life with you has been one of the greatest blessings. Your unwavering support and love mean everything to me. Thank you for attending countless lectures and always being by my side. To my close friends Ronald, Carla, Alex, and Paul: Thank you for believing in me. Through tough times and times of triumph, you have stood by me. I am blessed to have you all in my life.