Thinking Nutrition (Dr Tim Crowe)
Explore every episode of Thinking Nutrition
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 Feb 2022 | Nut allergies: causes, consequences and emerging treatments | 00:12:45 | |
Nut allergies are one of the most common types of food allergy seen in children and adults. Caused when the body’s immune system overreacts to proteins found in nuts or peanuts, it can lead to a range of symptoms from mild reactions to severe anaphylaxis that is life-threatening. People with a nut allergy need to avoid the nut that triggers their allergy entirely. There is hope on the horizon though. Called oral immunotherapy, it is emerging as a possible way to desensitise people to nuts and allow small amounts to be eaten safely. And that’s what I’ll be covering in this podcast. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 07 Mar 2022 | Want a healthy heart? Eat more of these flavonoid foods | 00:08:51 | |
Heard about flavonoids? They are just one group from a long list of beneficial natural polyphenol chemicals you’ll find in plant foods. While the chemistry and naming structure can be daunting, there is nothing daunting about the foods that contain lots of these flavonoids. In our body, these flavonoids can operate as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents. And that all spells good news for your heart health. In this podcast, I’ll explain what flavonoids are, what foods contain lots of them, and unveil the latest evidence linking them to good heart health. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 21 Mar 2022 | Focussing on eating healthier is better than trying to eat less | 00:06:20 | |
With no end of diets to choose from, it is clear they collectively make little long-term impact on body weight with most people regaining any weight lost within months. So, rather than putting the focus on dieting to lose weight, how much impact could a change in mindset to concentrate on eating healthier have instead? Well, in an interesting twist to this question, a research study designed to educate people on portion sizes, actually found that people ate more food. But the catch was that it was healthier food options they were choosing, with the flow-on benefit of them eating fewer kilojoules overall. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 04 Apr 2022 | Nutrient wins and losses on a plant-based diet | 00:12:14 | |
Plant-based eating is on-trend and has been for some time. Fuelled by health, environmental and ethical personal choices, we are seeing more people than ever adopt this way of eating. But there is no one ‘right’ way to eat. And even within a framework of ‘mostly plants’, it is possible to do it well and not so well. In this podcast, I’ll look at the latest research comparing different types of plant-based diets to one that includes meat and see how they compare on the nutrient wins and losses scoreboard. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 18 Apr 2022 | Go nuts for nuts: why they’re great for your heart and weight | 00:06:32 | |
Eating nuts as part of a healthy diet is good for your heart. They’re also a super nutritious snack for any time of the day. But, what about all that fat? Be fearful not of fat as not only is the type of fat found in nuts considered healthy, but a major systematic review finds little impact of eating nuts on body weight. And that’s what I’ll cover in today’s episode. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 02 May 2022 | Caffeine and resistance exercise: how much do you need? | 00:10:31 | |
Caffeine is a popular go-to supplement for many athletes. And for good reason. Not only is it the key component of one of the world’s most widely used legal drugs – I’m talking about coffee here people – it is also a sports supplement that is well supported by scientific evidence. Caffeine can offer a performance-enhancing benefit by providing a small, but worthwhile, enhancement of performance over a range of exercise situations from short-duration events right through to endurance events. In this podcast, I look at the role of caffeine specifically in resistance exercise and outline what could be the minimum amount needed for a benefit. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 16 May 2022 | Will magnesium help you sleep better? | 00:09:39 | |
Magnesium is a key mineral that is essential for muscle contractions and nerve transmission while also keeping your heart beating steadily and your immune system strong. Of the many health conditions linked to magnesium, it is poor sleep quality that often comes up as a reason to take magnesium supplements. In this podcast, I’ll look at the latest evidence for magnesium and sleep. And then I’ll profile the main food sources of magnesium and critique the merits of the many different supplemental forms of magnesium. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 30 May 2022 | Managing IBS with the low-FODMAP diet and probiotics | 00:08:23 | |
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints. With no one single identified trigger or treatment, IBS can be a minefield for a person to try and get on top of. Diet changes are one area that can have a positive impact on IBS and in this podcast, I’ll look at the current evidence for different approaches with a focus on the popular low-FODMAP diet as well as probiotic supplements. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 13 Jun 2022 | How beetroot juice lowers blood pressure and improves sports performance | 00:11:11 | |
Nitrates are inorganic compounds found in many vegetables such as spinach, celery, radishes, and lettuce, but beetroot is one of the highest sources. Nitrate contributes to the production of nitric oxide, which has an important role to play in immune function as well as regulating the tone of blood vessels which impacts blood pressure. In this podcast, I look at the evidence for using nitrate-rich beetroot juice to treat high blood pressure as well as its role as a supplement to improve athletic performance. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 27 Jun 2022 | How the Mediterranean diet benefits mental health | 00:15:37 | |
Counselling and medication gain most of the treatment attention for depression, but the promise of dietary changes to help to improve the outlook of people with depression and other common conditions such as anxiety is gaining traction. Welcome to the rapidly moving world of nutritional psychiatry which is uncovering key links between diet and mental health. And one such dietary pattern, the Mediterranean diet, is now building a research base behind it to support a change to the dietary themes this diet promotes to help improve mental health. And that’s what I’ll be exploring more about in this podcast episode. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 11 Jul 2022 | Will BCAAs give you the muscle gainz? | 00:09:45 | |
Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are a popular sports supplement with bodybuilders and athletes. But you don’t need to look for them in a bottle as our diet naturally contains them as part of the amino acid building blocks of protein. With claims of increased muscle protein synthesis, decreased muscle protein breakdown, enhanced endurance and less muscle soreness, they seem to be an essential supplement that no athlete can do without. In this episode, I’ll look at those claims and explore the evidence. TL;DR – save your money on BCAA supplements and just eat a variety of high-protein foods which is what athletes pretty much do already.
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| 25 Jul 2022 | Turning up the heat on chillies and their health benefits | 00:09:03 | |
If variety is the spice of life, then for some, a hot chilli dish is the ultimate way to add spice to life. But outside of the Mexican fiesta party happening inside your mouth and the waterworks from your sweat glands, could there be some benefits for your health? It's time to turn up the heat on chillies as I look at the science and health benefits linked to eating them. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 08 Aug 2022 | ‘Eat the rainbow’ really is good health advice | 00:07:45 | |
Advice to ‘eat the rainbow’ has been circulating in the nutrition sphere for some time. And no, it is not a call to action to get more Skittles in your life. Instead, it is all about choosing a variety of fruits and vegetables primarily based on their colour. Red, blue, orange, purple, yellow and green are the important colours here. And those colours occur because of the presence of a family of different polyphenol and other phytonutrient and other phytonutrients naturally found in foods. It is those coloured pigments that could explain many of the health benefits from eating these foods on your longevity, body weight, blood lipids and risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. In this podcast episode, I’ll explore the science behind ‘eating the rainbow’. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 22 Aug 2022 | Intermittent fasting: an update on the weight and metabolic health benefits | 00:15:01 | |
It was my second ever podcast episode released way back in February of 2020, but it has proven to be the most popular. It was titled The User’s Guide to Intermittent Fasting. Now, it is time to revisit the topic of intermittent fasting with an update on the clinical evidence for how fasting stacks up for its effects on body weight and metabolic health compared to other ways of eating. And that’s what I’ll be exploring in this episode by profiling the results of a recent review on this topic. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 05 Sep 2022 | Can probiotics help treat eczema in adults? | 00:08:28 | |
Eczema is a general term for rash-like skin conditions with atopic dermatitis being the most common form. Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterised by itching and recurrent eczema patches. Up to 20 percent of children can be affected by atopic dermatitis, but even in adults, it is far from uncommon with prevalence rates of between 1 and 3 percent. One growing area of study in the cause and treatment of atopic dermatitis is the role of the gut and skin microbiome through its effects on our immune system. One area of interest is the role of probiotics in treating eczema. And while much of the research here has been on infants and children, there has been a growing evidence base for adults as well. And that’s what I’ll be exploring in this podcast. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 19 Sep 2022 | Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): can nutrition supplements slow its progression? | 00:11:42 | |
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss in people over the age of 50. AMD is a progressive disease seen as damage to the retina, which can lead to permanent central vision loss and even blindness. Good nutrition is important for eye health. And for many years, a range of nutrients have been specifically promoted as having a role in helping to protect the eye from AMD progression. Much of the evidence to support the role of nutrition in AMD has come from observational research. But there have been some long-term clinical trials using specific nutritional supplements that give a clue to what may work. In this podcast episode, I profile the results from a follow-up study to one of the biggest intervention studies in this area. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 03 Oct 2022 | Keto for athletes: its effect on performance and body composition | 00:10:25 | |
For decades, carbohydrates have been at the centre of sports nutrition guidelines to help maximise physical performance and maintain muscle glycogen levels. But interest in an alternative approach, that being very low-carbohydrate ketogenic diets, has been growing for some time. With the dual aim of reducing body fat and enhancing the use of fat as a primary fuel source during exercise, there are plenty of glowing social media testimonials attesting to the benefits of this way of eating for athletes. But the research evidence for some years has been painting a very different, and often, opposing picture. And that’s what I explore in this podcast episode when I look at the findings of a recent systematic review on the topic of how the keto diet performs on exercise performance and body composition in athletes and trained individuals. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 17 Oct 2022 | Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): what role does diet play? | 00:12:23 | |
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an umbrella term that describes chronic inflammatory disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are the two most common forms of IBD. In recent years, research into the role of diet in the cause and treatment of IBD has been gaining traction. In this podcast episode, I look at some of that evolving research into potential dietary triggers linked to causing IBD as well as possible treatments for managing IBD with diet. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 14 Nov 2022 | This is your brain on food porn (and how it can promote healthier eating) | 00:10:42 | |
Food porn is all about posting and engaging with photos of desirable and stylised food on social media. And those digital images can do real things to our brains. Researchers are now digging below the surface level of social media trends and are exploring how the sharing of food porn images can influence the food choices we make. In this podcast, I look at how that influence can help nudge us in the direction of better food choices. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 05 Dec 2022 | Foods and fertility: how dietary patterns can influence fertility | 00:10:05 | |
What we eat is increasingly recognised as an important element in influencing fertility. With almost one in six couples experiencing fertility problems, knowing more about lifestyle factors such as diet that can alter this has major consequences. Most research in this area has focused on specific nutrients or food groups. But we don’t eat foods or nutrients - we eat whole diets which are described as dietary patterns. In this podcast episode, I profile new research into the area of dietary patterns and fertility to see what clues it can give to an optimal ‘fertility diet’. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 16 Jan 2023 | Can probiotics or prebiotics prevent or treat respiratory tract infections? | 00:10:07 | |
From the common cold right through to the flu, it is something most people are faced with many times over in their life. And all of us could do with less coughing, sore throat, runny nose, body aches and fatigue in our lives. Our gut microbiota plays an important part in our immune system, so scientists for some years have looked at how changing our gut microbiota could influence respiratory tract infections. In this podcast, I’ll look at the current state of play for the role of supplemental probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics in tackling acute respiratory tract infections. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 06 Feb 2023 | Nightshade vegetables: friend or foe for your health? | 00:09:23 | |
Nightshades are a group of plants that belong to the Solanaceae family. They include some very commonly eaten foods such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplants and potatoes. These foods have been eaten for centuries by many cultures around the world and are considered a staple food in many traditional diets. Despite this, if you go digging into ‘health and wellness’ advice on the Internet, you’ll sometimes come across health warnings about nightshades. Digestive issues and inflammation feature prominently. In this podcast, I explore the evidence for any health harms arising from eating nightshades and put this into context for the many health benefits that they also provide. Episode transcript Connect with me | |||
| 06 Mar 2023 | Enough of the ‘seed oils are toxic’ rubbish | 00:17:28 | |
If you’re active on social media in the health and nutrition space, it’s very likely you’ve seen health advice over the last few years warning you about the evils of seed oils. These seed oils are toxic don’t you know? And they’re blamed for a whole host of health ills such as inflammation, lowered immunity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer and more. But the reality about seed oils is far less scary and there are few health concerns you need worry about. And likely quite a few health benefits to be gained by having them. In this podcast, I’ll look at what seed oils are, explain where all those health warnings have come from and put this all into context for what it means for your health and the foods you choose to eat. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 27 Mar 2023 | Olive oil: a true ‘essential oil’ | 00:14:41 | |
Olive oil is a core staple in a Mediterranean-style diet. And it is for good reasons that it takes a central place as a ‘go to’ salad and cooking oil in kitchens around the world. In this age where too many foods are dubiously anointed with the title of ‘superfood’, extra virgin olive oil may just be one food deserving of this name in the oil category. In this podcast, I’ll look at the unique properties of olive oil and delve into what the scientific evidence says about its health benefits. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 24 Apr 2023 | Exercise recovery: the role of protein in post-workout muscle soreness and damage | 00:12:23 | |
It is something that all regular and not-so-regular exercisers have experienced: muscle pain and soreness in the days following a particularly hard training session. It is the price paid for the benefits exercise, especially resistance training, can have on growing muscle mass and strength, stability, glucose tolerance and bone density. The list of ways that people deal with exercise-induced muscle soreness is long, but in this podcast, I’ll explore one aspect. And that’s how protein helps with the recovery process and how it can be doing you good even if the aches and pains don’t feel any less. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 05 Jun 2023 | The lectin lowdown: time to counter the fear campaign about these plant proteins | 00:12:05 | |
In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in the potential negative health effects of lectins. What are lectins? They’re a type of protein found in many plant foods such as legumes, wholegrains and some fruits and vegetables. If you take YouTube clips and popular diet books on their word, then these lectins are harmful to human health and are a major driver of inflammation, weight gain and many chronic diseases. Of course, to believe all this, you need to suspend the reality that humans have been eating these foods for thousands of years and it is only in modern times that we have been hit with all these major health problems. But hey, we need to blame it all on something I guess and lectins seem like a great way to sell books and get website clicks. In this podcast, I’ll explore the role of lectins in the diet, the alleged health risks, and counter that with the health benefits of eating lectin-containing foods. Episode transcript Connect with me | |||
| 03 Jul 2023 | Lemon water: is it worth the squeeze or just sour hype? | 00:19:30 | |
Do you want to lose weight, boost your metabolism, improve your digestion, detox your body, and have glowing skin all while keeping your body nicely alkalised and in balance? You can. All you need do is start each day with a glass of water with the juice of a freshly squeezed lemon in it. I mean water is good for you. And lemons, being a fruit, are good for you. So why not combine the two and get a quantum level of health-boosting synergy? Okay, so now for a dose of reality as I explore the whole lemon water trend and pull apart those amazing health claims to see what is hype and what is reality. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 14 Aug 2023 | Tendon troubles: can collagen supplements help with tendon repair? | 00:14:51 | |
Tendons play a vital part in helping us move. They are a collagen-infused super-strong bridge that connects muscles to bones allowing you to move your limbs. When overused, overloaded or damaged, these same tendons can cause us a lot of pain and movement impairment. Outside of the well-defined medical treatments and physiotherapy rehabilitation programs that assist with recovering from tendon injuries, there has been growing interest in the role of specialised tendon-targeted nutritional supplements in aiding repair and recovery. And for good reason, hydrolysed collagen is a key component of many of these supplements. In this podcast, I’ll look at where the evidence stands for nutritional supplements helping with tendon healing. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 25 Sep 2023 | Can the humble cranberry reduce the risk of UTIs? | 00:09:35 | |
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common with women about 30 times more likely to develop one than men. The bacterial infection of a UTI can cause painful burning sensations when urinating, frequent and strong urges to urinate, and changes in the composition of the urine. Antibiotics are the most common first-line treatment for UTIs, but there is growing interest in the role that nutrition-related treatments can play in reducing the risk of developing a UTI in the first place. Enter the most common self-prescribed and best-researched treatment: the humble cranberry. In this podcast, I’ll look at the evidence for cranberries in all their forms for helping to reduce the risk of developing UTIs. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 04 Dec 2023 | Maternal probiotics and their effect on infant health | 00:09:13 | |
The establishment and development of the microbiome in the early stages of life can play a pivotal role in affecting our health throughout life. The formation of our microbiome happens during the perinatal period where it is influenced by the interaction between the microbiomes of mothers and infants. The microbial composition of breast milk plays an important part in this process. The microbiome of breast milk is also influenced by the gut microbiome of the mother through what is termed the gut-breast axis. In this podcast, I'll explore these mother-infant microbiome links and discover what the scientific evidence has to say about the potential for maternal probiotic supplements having a positive influence on the health of mother and infant. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 29 Jan 2024 | Are probiotics effective in IBS? | 00:07:44 | |
Irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints. With no single identified trigger or treatment, IBS can be a minefield for a person to try and get on top of. Dietary changes like a low-FODMAP diet, supplements and stress modification all have a role to play. Another emerging treatment for IBS are probiotics. Probiotics may improve IBS symptoms by changing the gut microbiota and their metabolite production which can change gut motility, inflammation and gut hypersensitivity. In this podcast, I’ll look at the evidence for the use of probiotic supplements in IBS. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 04 Mar 2024 | Arthritis relief: can collagen supplements help? | 00:21:04 | |
Interest in collagen supplements continues to grow – and for good reason. That’s because despite rubbish claims that are way off the mark that there is ‘no evidence they work’ and ‘all the research is funded by the collagen industry’, the reality is very different. In past podcasts I’ve delved into the topic of hydrolysed collagen supplements and skin health and where there are now dozens of blinded randomised controlled trials showing a benefit in increasing skin moisture and elasticity and reducing wrinkles – with many of the studies free from any conflict of interest and all supported by plausible mechanisms as to why collagen, and not other protein sources, can do this. But for this podcast, I want to focus on one of the other reasons that people may take collagen: and that’s to give relief from joint pain and stiffness. So for this episode, I’m going to focus on arthritis and outline what the clinical evidence says and what unique biological mechanisms could be at play to support a unique effect of collagen supplements. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 03 Jun 2024 | Can probiotics help fight age-related muscle loss? | 00:08:47 | |
Some aspects of ageing may be inevitable, but when it happens together with an accelerated loss of weight, muscle mass and strength it makes an older person much more susceptible to disability, poor quality of life and earlier death. The condition is called sarcopenia and it is underpinned by chronic inflammation. Diet and lifestyle changes can go a long way in preventing and treating sarcopenia and inflammation. And now research is adding to this by looking at the role of probiotics as a way to influence the gut microbiome and with that, the muscle loss and inflammation seen in sarcopenia. That’s what I’ll be exploring in this podcast. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 08 Jul 2024 | Maximising muscle: the role of protein type and timing | 00:16:05 | |
No one nutrient gets greater focus in the sports and performance world than protein – and for good reason. Protein builds and powers our muscles and with that comes strength and performance gains – something just about every athlete wants to have more of. Understanding how dietary protein improves muscle mass, strength and performance is crucial. Two topics that are hotly debated are the role of protein type and timing around a resistance training program. And they’re the topics I’m going to tackle in this podcast episode. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 26 Aug 2024 | Is hydrogen water healthy or a hoax? | 00:13:35 | |
Heard about hydrogen water? It is regular water that has extra hydrogen infused in it and it’s one of the latest health trends with proponents claiming it will fight off disease, reduce inflammation, boost energy, improve mental health and enhance athletic performance. That’s quite a list of impressive claims. But what does the research have to say? That’s what I explore in this podcast to see if hydrogen water can live up to the hype or if it should be labelled the latest health hoax. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 11 Nov 2024 | Maximising muscle gains with creatine: how well does it work? | 00:13:23 | |
Creatine is one of the most well-researched and effective sports nutrition supplements for improving exercise performance. So it is no surprise that interest in using creatine supplements to enhance performance during intense activity has grown dramatically over the last few years. One of the most common ‘use cases’ for creatine supplements is for muscle and strength gains. This makes creatine a popular choice by strength and power sports athletes, bodybuilders and recreational exercisers to supplement their resistance training. In this podcast episode, I dig deeper into what creatine is, how it may work and importantly: what the latest scientific evidence has to say about how it performs in maximising muscle gains. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 09 Dec 2024 | Strength in ageing: the role of protein and resistance training | 00:08:46 | |
We’re all getting older and living longer lives than ever before. But as we age, we are faced with a higher risk of nutritional frailty. This is marked by unintentional weight loss, loss of muscle mass and strength which increases the likelihood of disability. In this podcast episode, I highlight how our nutrition needs change as we age and why a firm focus is needed in preserving muscle mass through a combination of resistance exercise and additional protein. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 27 Jan 2025 | From FODMAPs to fibre: navigating dietary treatments for IBS | 00:09:34 | |
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal issue marked by abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. This chronic condition can lead to anxiety, depression and a reduced quality of life. With no definitive trigger or treatment, managing IBS can be challenging. However, diet changes can positively influence IBS. In this podcast episode, I’ll outline evidence for various approaches, from supplements like probiotics right through to low-FODMAP diets. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 10 Mar 2025 | From gut to glucose: the potential of probiotics in diabetes care | 00:07:40 | |
Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterised by high blood sugar levels due to insulin resistance or insufficient insulin production. It's a growing global health concern. While diet, exercise and medication form the cornerstone of diabetes management, researchers are continually exploring new avenues to improve blood sugar control. One such area gaining traction is the use of probiotics that can alter gut and metabolic health. But can these tiny microorganisms make a meaningful difference for people with type 2 diabetes? That’s what I explore in this episode. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 11 Jan 2020 | Making sense of nutrition confusion | 00:24:07 | |
If you want to be less confused about just how to make sense of conflicting nutrition messages that you hear about each day then you’ve come to the right place. In today’s podcast, I’ll unpack what makes nutrition appear to be such a confusing area. But importantly, I’ll help set you straight in knowing how to make sense of it all.
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| 20 Jan 2020 | The user's guide to intermittent fasting | 00:22:03 | |
Intermittent fasting is currently one of the world's most popular health trends. Characterised by alternating periods of food absence followed by periods of normal eating, promoters of intermittent fasting claim that it is the ‘metabolic key’ to unlocking weight loss, reducing inflammation, cutting the risk of diabetes and heart disease and maybe….even extending your life. This show covers what intermittent fasting is, how to do it, and what the evidence says about that long list of health claims.
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| 27 Jan 2020 | Blue Zones: secrets of the world’s long-lived | 00:26:40 | |
What’s the secret to a long, healthy life? The answer here does not lie in exotic Himalayan berries, green smoothies, or jumping on the latest fad diet bandwagon. Instead, take a step back and learn from the habits of those in the world who already have the answer. Called ‘Blue Zones’, these are areas in the world where more people enjoy remarkably longer, healthier lives than anywhere else on the planet. In this podcast episode, I’ll outline their key health habits and of course bring in what science has to say about it and then put it into practical terms for how to implement this in your own life. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 03 Feb 2020 | Coffee and its surprising health benefits | 00:18:48 | |
Coffee. For some, it is deserving of its own essential food group. But is coffee more than just a way to achieve functioning human capacity first thing in the morning? You may have seen media headlines in the past warning about health risks of coffee. But now that the science has matured, coffee turns out to be one of the most surprisingly positive health stories of recent years. Forget about the latest superfood trend, coffee is where it is at. In this podcast, I’ll look closer at those health benefits and give you the validation you’ve been seeking to justify your caffeine habit.
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| 10 Feb 2020 | How fermented foods benefit your health | 00:24:25 | |
Fermented foods are a hot food trend right now. But it has been an overnight success thousands of years in the making. In this first part of an ongoing series theme on all things gut health, gut bacteria and the gut microbiota, I explore the world of fermented foods, describe the popular ones and most importantly: look at what science has to say about their health benefits.
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| 17 Feb 2020 | Eating for two: you and your gut bacteria | 00:20:43 | |
There is nothing bigger in the world of nutrition and health at the moment than the gut microbiota. With potential far-reaching health implications, one of the best ways to keep your gut microbes happy is to feed them well. In this podcast, I’ll look at some of the health areas being linked to the gut microbiota. And then explore in greater depth one area, which is that of body weight regulation as the focus for this episode. And then I’ll drill down into letting you know the types of foods and nutrients that feed your gut microbes best.
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| 24 Feb 2020 | Got iron? Foods, functions and insufficiencies | 00:19:51 | |
Iron. It’s one of our most important essential minerals and sits at the heart of oxygen transport and energy metabolism in the body. In this podcast, I put the spotlight on iron, outline its key functions and explore the food factors that control how much of it we absorb. Because iron deficiency ranks as one of the world’s most common nutritional disorders, I go into detail of the consequences of this, how deficiency is tested for and importantly, how it can be managed with diet and supplements. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 02 Mar 2020 | Do you need that protein supplement? | 00:22:34 | |
The protein powder supplement market is big business. Popular in the world of sport where muscle growth is a priority, the marketplace is dominated by glossy pictures of cut models and an ever-expanding list of claims for how these products will pack on the muscle. So, do the bros at the gym have it right in that you need these supplements if you’re serious about the gainz, or could plain old boring ‘food’ do the same job? In today’s podcast, I dig deeper into the world of protein and muscle growth and explore what the research says about protein supplements and then put this into context for what it means for the typical sportsperson. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 09 Mar 2020 | The science of soy: health, harms and hyperbole | 00:23:14 | |
Soy. It’s one of the most polarising of foods. A casual search of the Internet will uncover first one article lauding it for its health benefits, while the next article will class it as food of the devil with eaters of it condemned to a hell of hormone-related disease. To help you make sense of the conflicting messages about soy, I’ll dig deeper into some of the key health areas linked to eating soy foods. And then I’ll clarify just how much credence you should give to both the health claims and the health alarms about it. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 16 Mar 2020 | All things sweet: sugar and your health | 00:20:02 | |
Sugar. We eat too much of it, but how worried should you be about what is doing to your health? While there can be considerable debate in many areas of nutrition science, along with conflicting recommendations on what we should eat, sugar is one food that everyone unites on in acknowledging that we eat too much of it. In this episode, I explore the different ways that added sugar can sneak into food, explore the truths (and lies) about some of the health claims made about it, and give you tips on how to eat less of it – all with no ‘12-week sugar detox program’ needed.
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| 23 Mar 2020 | Shedding light on vitamin D and your immune system | 00:21:07 | |
Vitamin D is well-known for its role in building strong bones. But increasingly, research is revealing the importance of vitamin D in protecting against a host of health problems. Serving a dual role as both a hormone and vitamin, it is the sun that is the main source of vitamin D with few foods being reliable sources of it. In this podcast, I outline the key roles played by vitamin D, profile the growing number of health areas linked to it especially as it relates to immunity, and discuss how you can keep your vitamin D levels up. That last point is especially important in today’s times with self-isolation now trending as 2020’s word of the year. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 30 Mar 2020 | Drink tea and carry on | 00:18:51 | |
People all over the world have been drinking tea for centuries, and for good reason. A growing field of research has shown that tea has a role to play in reducing the risk of many chronic diseases. And on top of that, a good cup of tea has a real calming and relaxing effect – just what we need in these stressful times. So put the kettle on, sit back, and relax, as I explore the health benefits of tea. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 06 Apr 2020 | Reasons to love your legumes | 00:17:27 | |
Want to know what the one food that is truly deserving of the title ‘superfood’ is? It is legumes. Packed with nutrients, offering a host of health benefits and good for the environment too, you’ve probably been overlooking these foods for years. It is time to give them another look. Oh, and they also store really well, making them ideal doomsday prepping foods which is on-trend in today’s times. In this podcast, I’ll talk about the foods that make up the legume family, uncover those health benefits and give you tips on how you can get more of them in your diet. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 13 Apr 2020 | Your guide to vitamin C | 00:16:48 | |
Vitamin C is a vital nutrient for health. It is central in the functioning of the immune system and building strong bones, skin, and blood vessels. Yet despite vitamin C being abundant in fruits and vegetables, it is also one of the most popular supplements taken, despite widespread deficiency in the population not being an issue. In this podcast, I’ll look closer at the roles of vitamin C and uncover the evidence for some of the many health claims made about it. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 20 Apr 2020 | Water, water everywhere | 00:19:47 | |
How much water do you really need, and is possible to drink too much? In this podcast, I explain why the advice to drink ‘8 glasses of water each day’ is a myth that needs to be busted. And then I’ll outline that while even though it is very rare, it is possible for a healthy person to drink too much water with the consequences of this being potentially life-threatening. So, endurance athletes take note, this could apply to you. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 27 Apr 2020 | Sports supplements essentials: creatine | 00:12:16 | |
The sports supplement market is big business. And it is no wonder that athletes gravitate to the pills, powders and potions on the market for the promises they make of enhancing training and race day performance and allowing them to get the jump on their competitors. The reality is that most of these supplements have little evidence for a benefit. It is not all negative news though as there is a small group of supplements that are backed by science and which can play a performance-enhancing role in some athletes. In this series on sports supplements, I will profile this group of supplements and for this podcast, the spotlight is on creatine. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 04 May 2020 | Sports supplements essentials: caffeine | 00:10:49 | |
The sports supplement market is big business, but the reality is that most of these supplements have little evidence for a benefit. It is not all negative news though as there is a small group of supplements that are backed by science and which can play a performance-enhancing role in some athletes. In this series on sports supplements, I will profile this group of supplements and for this podcast, the spotlight is on caffeine. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 11 May 2020 | Sports supplements essentials: beetroot juice | 00:09:15 | |
The sports supplement market is big business, but the reality is that most of these supplements have little evidence for a benefit. It is not all negative news though as there is a small group of supplements that are backed by science and which can play a performance-enhancing role in some athletes. In this series on sports supplements, I will profile this group of supplements and for this podcast, the spotlight is on beetroot juice. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 18 May 2020 | Sports supplements essentials: sodium bicarbonate | 00:10:03 | |
The sports supplement market is big business, but the reality is that most of these supplements have little evidence for a benefit. It is not all negative news though because there is a small group of supplements that are backed by science and which can play a performance-enhancing role in some athletes. In this series on sports supplements, I will profile this group of supplements and for this podcast, the spotlight is on sodium bicarbonate. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 25 May 2020 | Sports supplements essentials: beta-alanine | 00:08:29 | |
The sports supplement market is big business, but the reality is that most of these supplements have little evidence for a benefit. It is not all negative news though because there is a small group of supplements that are backed by science and which can play a performance-enhancing role in some athletes. In this series on sports supplements, I will profile this group of supplements and for this podcast, the spotlight is on beta-alanine. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 01 Jun 2020 | Are raw food diet claims overcooked? | 00:13:54 | |
Eating only raw foods has emerged as a popular dietary trend. Proclaiming an emotive health message, it is enough to make you think twice before next adding heat to your food. But fear not because on the scales of health, there is little to tip the balance in either direction. In this podcast, I look at the claims made about raw food diets and put these into context for the many health benefits that cooking food offers. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 08 Jun 2020 | Magnesium: foods, functions and supplemental forms | 00:13:20 | |
Magnesium. It is a key mineral in our body and needed for more than 300 different chemical reactions. It is also essential for muscle contractions and nerve transmission while keeping your heart beating steadily and your immune system strong. In this podcast, I’ll outline the key functions of magnesium as well as cover the different health conditions where magnesium is thought to play a role such as heart disease and high blood pressure, diabetes, muscle cramping and poor sleep quality. And then I’ll look at the main food sources and critique the merits of the many different supplemental forms of magnesium. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 15 Jun 2020 | Why antioxidants in food are overrated | 00:13:33 | |
Antioxidants. They’re a food marketer’s dream. With promises of helping to keep your waistline slim, your heart healthy, and your brain sharp, is there anything these wonder molecules can’t do? Blueberries, dark chocolate, green tea and whatever happens to be trendy in the juice bar scene makes for a great reason to eat something delicious that can also be good for your health. But the time of antioxidants has come and gone. Nutrition science has moved on and now promotes the benefits that thousands of other natural chemicals found in foods can have – most with nothing to do with their antioxidant activity. In this podcast, I’ll outline the role antioxidants play in the body and explain why food is much more than antioxidants when it comes to health. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 22 Jun 2020 | How what you eat affects your mental health | 00:22:57 | |
You are what you eat, but when it comes to your mental health, what you eat can have a profound impact on your mood and how you feel. Welcome to the rapidly moving world of nutritional psychiatry which is uncovering the key links between diet and mental health. And it could just be that it is our gut microbes, by acting as psychobiotics, that are the stars of the show here; so long as they are kept fed well. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 29 Jun 2020 | My top nutrition myths | 00:17:29 | |
Can a slow metabolism be blamed for most people's weight gain? Is celery a negative calorie food? Does microwaving food destroy nutrients? The answer to all of the questions I just posed is 'no'. Welcome to the world of nutrition myths. Nutrition is a field where someone can be seen by the public as an ‘expert’ simply because of the way they eat and the benefits it has had for them. So, is it any wonder that nutrition is also an area that is ripe for the propagation of all manner of myths and falsehoods? Some of these myths are born from a base of science, but as science advances, these myths should be called out for what they are. In this podcast, I’ll go over some of the more popular myths I’ve come across and explain where the truth really lies. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 06 Jul 2020 | Tracking diet trends with Google Trends | 00:15:19 | |
Diets are like clothing fashion trends: they come into and out of style. And if you wait long enough: back into style again. One of my favourite pop culture research tools is Google Trends. Google Trends keeps a global finger on the pulse of what’s hot and what’s not in the world of nutrition and diets. And tracks this over time based on the popularity of search terms. Now a research team has mined this wealth of data to produce a snapshot of the ever-changing diet trends with some surprising results. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 13 Jul 2020 | Got zinc? Foods, functions and deficiencies | 00:14:38 | |
Zinc is an essential mineral which is needed for the proper growth and maintenance of our body. It is a key factor in helping hundreds of enzymes work and is needed for immune function, wound healing, blood clotting, thyroid function and much more. While rare, zinc deficiency in a country like Australia can occur and there are certain groups particularly at risk. In this podcast, I’ll outline the key roles of zinc, what the consequences of deficiency are and give you suggestions on the best food sources and supplemental forms of zinc. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 20 Jul 2020 | How to decipher a research paper | 00:30:45 | |
Nutrition is based on science. And while the science may not always agree and even change over time, just like all scientific fields of research, without credible research to inform your views you are really just flying blind in the wind at the mercy of feelpinions and what your social media news feed shows you. The base of all scientific research is the communication of it through research papers published in peer-reviewed journals. In this podcast, I’ll show you how to delve beyond the title of a research paper and instead apply a critical filter to all parts of the research study. Developing this skill will allow you to form your own view of how much influence to give to a research study, rather than be led astray from those seeking to influence you. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 27 Jul 2020 | How to keep up with nutrition research | 00:15:49 | |
Want to keep up with the latest developments in nutrition research? Nothing beats curating your own information-gathering network from a variety of credible sources. But where to start? If you want to keep up with breaking nutrition research like a boss, then this podcast is for you. I’ll let you in on the key journals to subscribe to, the best search databases to use, and profile some of the best secondary sources that do a lot of the curating for you.
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| 03 Aug 2020 | Treating IBS with diet and supplements: what does the evidence say? | 00:19:44 | |
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints. Characterised by abdominal pain and bloating and alternating periods of diarrhoea and constipation, this chronic condition can go on to cause anxiety, depression and severely affect the quality of life of a person suffering from it. With no one single identified trigger or treatment, IBS can be a minefield for a person to try and get on top of. Diet changes are one area that can have a positive impact on IBS and in this podcast, I look at the evidence for different approaches from supplements such as peppermint oil right through to the very promising research on low-FODMAP diets. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 10 Aug 2020 | This is your brain on blueberries | 00:11:51 | |
What’s blue, round, sweet, grows on a bush and can boost your brainpower? If you answered blueberries, you would be right. Or that should be: ‘mostly right’. The ‘brain-boosting’ part needs a bit more science to catch up to the headlines, but it is looking promising that blueberries may be one food worthy of the ‘superfood’ title. In this podcast, I’ll look at the science behind how blueberries can help keep your brain healthy and functioning well throughout life. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 17 Aug 2020 | The perils of highly processed foods | 00:15:18 | |
"Just cut out processed foods if you want to be healthy". It’s an easy throw-away line loved by nutrition wellness influencers on social media, but such advice shows naivety for what happens to food in its journey to our plate. Almost everything you eat to some extent has been processed, and not all processed foods are bad for the body. Now nutrition researchers are better defining the world of processed foods and here, it is the new term of ‘ultra-processed foods’ that you will be seeing used more in the future. In this podcast, I look at what defines an ultra-processed food and explain how they are now recognised for the unhealthy addition they make to your diet. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 24 Aug 2020 | Detox diets: their pros and cons | 00:17:45 | |
Detox or liver cleansing diets have been around for many years. With astonishing claims of rapid and easy weight loss, improved health, and more energy, they offer the ultimate quick fix to get you healthy again. In this podcast, I will give you the essential guide to detox diets, look at the claims made versus the reality and outline my list of pros and cons for anyone considering going on a cleanse. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 31 Aug 2020 | Chocolate and its many health benefits | 00:16:05 | |
Chocolate. It’s sweet, it’s tasty, we desire it and crave it. It is a food that brings immense pleasure and enjoyment. And in case you were looking for any more valid reasons to eat it, scientific research now confirms that it can be good for you. In this podcast, you’ll learn about the heart, exercise and brain health benefits of chocolate. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 07 Sep 2020 | Is cinnamon a super spice for blood sugar control? | 00:14:15 | |
Cinnamon is a spice that has been used around the world for thousands of years. It is far more than a food accompaniment. It’s the use of cinnamon as a medicinal agent that has scientists interested because of unique compounds found in cinnamon that appear to offer some unique health benefits. In this podcast, I’ll look at those health benefits with the spotlight firmly placed on how cinnamon may help people with diabetes keep their blood sugar levels under better control. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 14 Sep 2020 | How useful is body mass index (BMI)? | 00:12:49 | |
Carrying too much weight is linked to poorer health. But just how much weight is too much? Body fat can be measured in several different ways, with each method having its own pros and cons. Body mass index or BMI is by far the most common one as it only relies on knowing your height and weight. But with that simplicity comes flaws as those easy results can sometimes be misleading, which is why the widespread use of BMI is troubling. In this podcast, I’ll look at the different ways that body fat assessment can be made and explain why you should take any BMI label it may give you with a grain of salt. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 21 Sep 2020 | Is it better to exercise fasted or fed? | 00:10:47 | |
To exercise fasted or fed? It’s a controversial topic with strong views coming from both camps. For those promoting weight loss, exercising fasted is often an essential criterion to ensure the most ‘fat burning’ possible. Then there is the opposing argument that you want to be well-fuelled before activity to help power the length and duration of your exercise. As with most things in nutrition, the simple logic of both camps falls down when you take into account the complexity of physiology and psychology of us as human beings. In this podcast, I’ll look at the fasted versus fed exercise debate. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 28 Sep 2020 | Five ways to cut your risk of bowel cancer | 00:19:56 | |
Bowel cancer (also called colon or colorectal cancer) ranks as one of Australia’s most common cancers, especially for people aged over 50. This is one form of cancer where diet and lifestyle choices play a big part in changing a person’s risk of developing it. That actually makes it a good news story because lifestyle factors are changeable. In this podcast, I’ll outline the key lifestyle habits to consider looking at that could lower your risk of bowel cancer. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 05 Oct 2020 | Do multivitamins make you healthier? | 00:15:29 | |
Multivitamin supplements are big business. Pharmacy and supermarket shelves groan under the weight of choice available to us. So, if you’re serious about your health, should you be taking one of these even if it is just as an insurance policy for a less-than-perfect diet? While multivitamins won't boost your health as much as what people believe, they do have the potential to be useful for certain groups of people. In my latest podcast, I investigate the evidence for any health benefits of multivitamins and then tell you for which people they could prove useful and for whom they really are just a waste of money. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 12 Oct 2020 | Food comas: why overeating makes you sleepy | 00:11:10 | |
Feeling sleepy after a big meal? Is moving to the couch the only activity you’re capable of after Christmas lunch? You may just have been the victim of a food coma. Food comas are a real thing. And there is plenty of science to explain why the food binge you just took part in has done what it has to you. In this podcast, I explore the food coma in all its physiological and neurological glory and explain how you can help prevent it. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 19 Oct 2020 | Can you cure a hangover? | 00:11:42 | |
Hangovers are the body's way of reminding us about the hazards of overindulgence. In this podcast, I’ll delve into what goes on behind the scenes to cause a hangover. I’ll then explore what science has to say about all those supposed ‘hangover cures’. And finally, I’ll outline the practical things that are in your control to help prevent and treat a hangover. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 26 Oct 2020 | Sleeping your way to better health | 00:16:14 | |
Sleep is like good nutrition for your brain. Poor sleep is like putting your brain on a junk food diet – literally. Now a growing pool of research is linking poor sleep habits and disrupted sleep patterns from shift work with adverse health problems that include obesity and metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. In this podcast, I’ll look at the sleep-health connection and explain what disrupted sleep could be doing to your food habits, hormones and weight. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 02 Nov 2020 | Iodine: why you need it and where you find it | 00:11:07 | |
Iodine is a trace element that is naturally present in foods and is added to some types of salt. Iodine is an essential component of thyroid hormone which plays a key role in digestion, heart and muscle function, brain development and maintenance of bones. Getting enough iodine is important for everyone, especially infants and women who are pregnant. In this podcast, I’ll look at the roles of iodine, where it is found in food and what are the health issues with not getting enough of it. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 09 Nov 2020 | Low-carb diets: are they the best way to manage diabetes? | 00:17:01 | |
Low-carbohydrate diets are certainly on trend today. And it is for diabetes that such diets have attracted a lot of attention. Low-carbohydrate diets have without question helped many people with diabetes keep their blood sugar levels more stable and even for some people with type 2 diabetes helped to even help to fully resolve their diabetes. In today’s podcast, I look at the history of dietary recommendations for diabetes. I’ll then look at what the scientific evidence says for how effective low-carbohydrate diets are for diabetes compared to other approaches. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 16 Nov 2020 | Vitamin B12: foods, functions and deficiencies | 00:10:38 | |
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient integral to the healthy functioning of the brain and nervous system. It is also involved in DNA synthesis and the formation of red blood cells. Because vitamin B12 is produced by bacteria in the large intestines of animals, plant-based foods are not a reliable source of vitamin B12 making people who follow a vegan diet a key at-risk group for deficiency. In this podcast, I’ll look at the roles of vitamin B12 and the main causes and consequences of deficiency. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 23 Nov 2020 | The Mediterranean diet: the health benefits keep growing | 00:14:07 | |
Considered one of the world’s healthiest dietary patterns, the Mediterranean diet is linked to a host of positive health benefits. The theme of the diet is one abundant in fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, legumes and olive oil and where fish and poultry feature more often than red meat. From less chronic disease right through to a longer life, in this podcast I’ll dig deeper into the health merits of adopting some of the key themes of the Mediterranean diet for your own individual way of eating. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 30 Nov 2020 | Is organic food healthier? | 00:16:43 | |
Buying organic is a booming food trend. It is also a trend that comes with a health halo for being more nutritious, healthier and tastier than conventional produce. But how do these claims stack up when you look at the research behind them? And is the price premium you pay for organic worth it? In this podcast, I look at the health merits of organic food and unpick those health and nutrition claims. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 28 Dec 2020 | 2020's most popular: food, mood and mental health | 00:24:16 | |
You are what you eat, but when it comes to your mental health, what you eat can have a profound impact on your mood and how you feel. Welcome to the rapidly moving world of nutritional psychiatry which is uncovering the key links between diet and mental health. And it could just be that it is our gut microbes, by acting as psychobiotics, that are the stars of the show here; so long as they are kept fed well. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 04 Jan 2021 | 2020's most popular: intermittent fasting | 00:23:18 | |
Intermittent fasting is currently one of the world's most popular health trends. Characterised by alternating periods of food absence followed by periods of normal eating, promoters of intermittent fasting claim that it is the ‘metabolic key’ to unlocking weight loss, reducing inflammation, cutting the risk of diabetes and heart disease and maybe….even extending your life. This show covers what intermittent fasting is, how to do it, and what the evidence says about that long list of health claims.
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| 11 Jan 2021 | 2020's most popular: coffee and its surprising health benefits | 00:20:05 | |
Coffee. For some, it is deserving of its own essential food group. But is coffee more than just a way to achieve functioning human capacity first thing in the morning? You may have seen media headlines in the past warning about health risks of coffee. But now that the science has matured, coffee turns out to be one of the most surprisingly positive health stories of recent years. Forget about the latest superfood trend, coffee is where it is at. In this podcast, I’ll look closer at those health benefits and give you the validation you’ve been seeking to justify your caffeine habit.
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| 07 Dec 2020 | Folate: more than a pregnancy vitamin | 00:15:25 | |
Folate is a vitamin important in growth and development. Everyone needs folate, but it is especially important for women to get enough of it during the early stages of pregnancy to help reduce the risk of foetal brain and spinal cord abnormalities such as spina bifida. In this podcast, I look at the key roles of folate in the body, explain how it helps prevent birth defects and the key dietary and supplement sources of it. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 21 Dec 2020 | A Christmas Carol of vitamin D deficiency | 00:07:19 | |
As the end of 2020 approaches, I thought I’d bring in a Christmas theme, but of course, one with a nutritionally based message. And what better way to do that than by unpacking Charles Dickens’ classic: ‘A Christmas Carol’, as a medical case study in vitamin D deficiency. Listen on to learn more. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 14 Dec 2020 | More nutrition myth busting | 00:12:27 | |
Does sugar really make kids hyperactive? Is fresh fruit and veg better than frozen? And does coffee actually make you dehydrated? The answer to all of the questions I just posed is 'no'. Welcome to the world of nutrition myths and in my latest podcast, I’ll go over some of the more popular myths I’ve come across and explain where the truth really lies. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 18 Jan 2021 | 2020's most popular: what makes nutrition so confusing? | 00:24:50 | |
If you want to be less confused about just how to make sense of conflicting nutrition messages that you hear about each day then you’ve come to the right place. In today’s podcast, I’ll unpack what makes nutrition appear to be such a confusing area. But importantly, I’ll help set you straight in knowing how to make sense of it all.
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| 25 Jan 2021 | How do the plant-based milks stack up? | 00:10:06 | |
Gone are the days when cow’s milk was the only choice at the supermarket. There has been an explosion in recent years of plant-based non-dairy alternative milks. From the very familiar soy milk, we now have almond, coconut, oat, and rice milk plus a host of others joining the party. How well these contender alt-milks stack up against the ‘reference standard’ of cow’s milk is what I’ll be digging into in this podcast. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 01 Feb 2021 | The rise of meatless meat | 00:11:32 | |
There was a time when plant-based meat substitutes were the exclusive domain of vegetarians and vegans. Now the food science technology behind these plant-based foods has come of age with products designed to closely look, feel, taste and even bleed like the real thing. The rise of meatless meats is all about meeting the demands of traditional meat-eaters who want to cut down on meat and are looking for plant-based protein alternatives. But are these foods really a healthier alternative to their animal counterparts? That’s what I’ll explore in this podcast. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 08 Feb 2021 | Coeliac disease, gluten sensitivity and the rise of gluten-free diets | 00:15:52 | |
Coeliac disease affects less than 1 percent of the population, yet, despite its relative rarity, there has been an explosion in the adoption of a gluten-free lifestyle. It is becoming more and more common for people to report having problematic reactions to foods containing gluten. Termed non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, this is a condition still in search of a defined disease despite having a large degree of overlap in symptoms with coeliac disease. In this podcast, I’ll explore the connection between coeliac disease, gluten sensitivity and gluten. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 15 Feb 2021 | Alkaline diets: the antithesis of how human physiology works | 00:12:37 | |
What if I told you that all it takes to lose weight, boost energy and prevent diseases like arthritis, osteoporosis and cancer was to eat the right foods to keep the pH of your body in the alkaline zone? Well, if I were prepared to throw out every bit of scientific knowledge that I have of how the human body works to buffer against acidity and alkalinity then sure, I could tell you that. But I’m not. Instead, in today’s podcast, I’m going to investigate those wild health claims made by the celebrity-endorsed alkaline diet and explain why it is pseudoscience squared. Connect with me | |||
| 22 Feb 2021 | Collagen supplements: legit or Insta influencer fairy dust? | 00:13:44 | |
Collagen supplements are big business. And is it any wonder when they are touted as the elixir for youthful and glowing skin. With plenty of A-list celebrities singing its praises, it’s no wonder collagen is having a moment in the spotlight. And a look at Google Trends shows search interest in collagen supplements really took off at the start of 2019 and it is showing no signs of slowing down. Reading the shopping list of health claims made about collagen - from turning back the clock on your skin, treating joint pain and even ‘healing your gut’ - you should rightly raise your sceptical flag. Yet when you look at the scientific evidence, there could just be some validity to some of these claims. That’s what I’ll be exploring in this podcast. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 01 Mar 2021 | Calcium: foods, functions and supplemental forms | 00:15:23 | |
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and it’s not just there for making healthy bones. Calcium is needed to move muscles, send nerve signals and release hormones. While dairy gets a lot of the attention for being a good source of calcium, there are plenty of other foods that help meet your needs too. In this podcast, I look at the roles of calcium, the consequences of not getting enough and tackle the controversial area of if calcium supplements are to be recommended or not. Links referred to in the podcast
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| 08 Mar 2021 | The carnivore diet raises the middle finger to the plant-based trend | 00:11:14 | |
Want to eat the exact opposite of plant-based? Then the carnivore diet has you covered. A diet that consists entirely of animal foods and zero carbs and plants, it offers the promise of weight loss and a cure for all that ails you from autoimmune diseases to depression. Of all the trends that buck conventional nutrition advice, the carnivore diet lies several standard deviations to the right of the diet crazy curve. In this podcast, I look at what created the carnivore diet trend, what it involves, and importantly: what can we say about its health merits. Links referred to in the podcast
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