Plant Proof - Plant Based Nutrition & Inspirational Stories

Episode #281. With nearly a quarter of the world's population estimated to be affected by non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), understanding its intricacies is crucial. Join me as Dr Alan Flanagan helps unravel the complexities of NAFLD, breaks down its wider health ramifications, and offers insights on managing and living with the condition. We discuss: Introduction to Fatty Liver Disease (00:00) Understanding Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Its Development (02:27) Risk Factors: Gender Differences in Fatty Liver Disease Development (09:33) The Science of Hepatic Fat Oxidation (14:45) Consequences and Effects of Fatty Liver Disease (20:25) Identifying Symptoms of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (25:54) Risk Assessment: Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Premenopausal Women (29:33) Energy Toxicity and Misconceptions about BMI (34:50) Linking Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease with Type 2 Diabetes (48:34) Liver Changes During Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Progression (1:02:16) Str

Episode #280. Ever wondered how the simple act of timing – when you eat, sleep, or even look at your phone – could dramatically affect your health? In this episode, I sit down with circadian biology expert Dr Satchin Panda to explore this concept. We delve into the science of our body's internal clocks and offer practical advice to keep them in sync. Don't miss out on unlocking the potential of your circadian rhythm for a healthier, more balanced life. We discuss: Introduction (0:00) Understanding Circadian Rhythms: Do They Influence Longevity? (1:55) The Role of the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus (SCN) in Circadian Rhythms (6:20) Cellular-Level Circadian Clocks: An Overview (10:33) A Comprehensive Look at Circadian Disruption (15:56) Effective Strategies for Managing Jet Lag (26:39) The Impact of Blue Light on Circadian Rhythms (29:17) Criteria for Diagnosing Circadian Rhythm Disorders (33:42) Sensitivity Factors of Circadian Rhythms (34:58) The Significance of Meal Timing in Circadian Rhythms (39:30) C

Episode #279. You've heard a lot about the benefits of Zone 2 training, but how do you actually fit it into your busy schedule? Join me as I sit down with exercise physiologist Drew Harrisberg to dive into the practical aspects of implementing Zone 2 training. Drew brings both professional insight and personal experience to help you understand how to optimise your training zones for long-term health benefits. Tune in to learn how to get the most out of your workouts, backed by science and sprinkled with good laughs. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Drew's Insights on Training Regimens (06:52) Deep Dive with Inigo: Exploring Zone 2 Training (09:01) The Importance of Mitochondrial Function in Workout Planning (22:38) Do You Really Need 300 Minutes in Zone 2? (23:56) Discovering the Ideal Cardio Protocol (31:10) Cardio Strategies on Social Media: Are They Effective? (40:51) Methods to Accurately Measure Your Maximum Heart Rate (46:34) The Perfect Cardio Routine: Part II (50:46) Unveiling the Tr

Episode #278. If you follow a plant-based diet, chances are you’ve wondered if you’re getting an adequate amount of omega-3. Join me as I sit down with Professor Philip Calder, an international authority in nutritional immunology with over 20 years of research on fatty acids. Professor Calder helps to cut through the confusion to give you the science-backed breakdown on how these fats impact your health, and how much you should really be consuming. Learn everything you need to know about these essential fats in your diet in this episode. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction (00:00) Philip Calder's Passion for Fatty Acids and His Background (02:00) Debunking Major Fatty Acid Myths in Academia & Social Media (05:53) Altering Cell Membrane Health Through Diet (11:14) Understanding Essential Fats: Why are They Vital? (13:57) Low Conversion Rates: From ALA to EPA & DHA Explained (18:08) The Importance of Monitoring Omega 6 Intake (23:31) The Link Between Omega 6 Fatty Acids and Inflammation (27:28) Doe

Episode #277. Curious about the buzz around Zone 2 training? Dr Inigo San Millan, an expert in metabolic health and sports performance, joins me to decode the science behind Zone 2. Learn how to fine-tune your exercise intensity for metabolic flexibility, longevity, and peak performance. We discuss: Introduction (00:00) Understanding Metabolic Health (2:21) Metabolic Health Among Elite Athletes: Exploring the Perfection of Studying (6:40) Metabolic Health, Mitochondria, and Nutrition (8:00) Defining 'Metabolise' (14:41) Exploring Metabolic Flexibility (18:33) Determining the Causes of Mitochondrial Dysfunction (21:01) The Role of Oxygen in Energy Production Mechanisms (24:44) Comprehending Energy Zones (28:07) Energy Metabolism Mechanisms: Glucose vs. Fat (40:27) Zone 2's Optimal Stimulation of Mitochondria (45:29) Lactate's Impact on Mitochondria: Unraveling the Effects (50:46) Managing Lactate Levels: Strategies Employed by Athletes (59:37) Establishing an Aerobic Base (1:15:13) Inducing Mit

Episode #276. How does an earth scientist embark on a career journey that traverses the fossil fuel industry, Silicon Valley alongside Steve Jobs, and a mission to revolutionise our approach to food? Chris MacAskill has worn many hats throughout his career, overcoming extreme hardship to get to where he is today. This episode challenges conventional thinking and is an inspiration to more carefully consider the choices we make every day, both for our health and the planet. We discuss: Introduction (00:00) Insights into Chris MacAskill's Background (03:00) Ancell Kees' Studies (07:20) Chris MacAskill's Childhood (13:50) Life-Altering Experiences of an Earth Scientist (32:51) Climate Change in the 1980s (40:01) Fuel Companies: Lobbying and Financing (43:39) Obesity, Public Healthcare, and Public Interest (46:33) A Deep Dive into Various Diets with Chris MacAskill (50:42) Diets Preferred by Brain Scientists (1:04:53) Understanding the Impact of Food on the Environment (1:08:46) The Health Implication

Episode #275. Have you ever wondered how your gut health might affect your body weight? In this episode, I sit down with Dr Will Bulsiewicz – a leading authority in gut health and The Proof fan favourite – to unravel the fascinating connection between the microbiome and metabolism. From exploring dietary fibre’s impact on disease prevention to comparing ketogenic and plant-based diets, this conversation offers a deep dive into how our inner ecosystem influences our overall health. Tune in for actionable insights and scientific revelations that could transform your approach to wellbeing. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Introduction to Dr. Will Bulsiewicz and His Literary Contributions (2:42) Do Gastroenterologists Analyse Their Own Stool? (7:43) Dr. Will Bulsiewicz's Collaboration with ZOE (9:55) Behind the Scenes: Dr. Will's Nutritional Supplement Venture (11:20) The Progressive Journey of the Gut Health Movement (14:02) Decoding the Microbiome: Its Role and Significance in Health (17:20) Exp

Episode #274. Join me as I sit down with Dr Joel Fuhrman to explore the Nutritarian diet, a unique approach that emphasises nutritional excellence to prevent cancer, slow aging, and even reverse chronic disease. With insights into reversing chronic illnesses and understanding the balance between caloric and nutrient satisfaction, Dr Fuhrman's perspective offers a fresh take on nutrition. Tune in for a valuable exploration of food as medicine and learn practical strategies to optimise your wellbeing through food choices. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction to Dr Joel Fuhrman and the Nutritarian Lifestyle (00:00) Overview of Dr Fuhrman's Micronutrient-rich Diet and Its Advantages (2:43) The Role of Fibre and Resistant Starch in Diet (9:32) Dr Fuhrman's Personal Introduction to Plant-based Eating (12:08) The Importance of Optimising Omega-3 Consumption (22:42) Understanding DHA and EPA: Do we need them (28:03) Blue Zones (33:33) The Role of Zinc in Diet and When to Think About Supplementation (37:55)

Episode #273. When we think about health and wellness, what usually comes to mind is nutrition, exercise, sleep, or some other tangible metric. But what about love? In this conversation, I sit down with relationship coach Jillian Turecki to hear her insights on the power of a healthy relationship. We discuss: Intro (00:00) Quality of self-love = quality of love life (2:25) Red flags, compatibility, and being "perfect" (7:50) Self-worth and personal responsibility (15:49) Practices for nurturing self-love (24:45) Confidence is key (29:41) Dating and more red flags (36:46) Societal pressures (45:15) Lust and love (51:48) Romantic relationship and loneliness (54:55) What about getting dates in the first place? (59:04) Honesty is king (1:08:56) Declining of marriage rates (1:12:21) Lasting love amidst flaws and imperfections (1:16:38) Attachment styles (1:21:20) Foundation of a successful relationship (1:28:14) Supportive relationship, sex, and stress (1:31:33)\ Porn (1:37:33) Communication mi

Episode #272. In the quest for an extended lifespan, has science been led astray? Join me as I sit down with Professor Charles Brenner, a leading global expert in NAD biology, to examine the longevity field's claims and controversies. From debunking common beliefs to questioning high-profile opinions, Dr Brenner delivers a refreshingly candid perspective on the science of aging. Tune in to explore why he believes there's no “cure” for aging, the limitations of animal studies, and what the future might hold for this complex field. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Do we have the genes to live beyond 120 years? (3:54) The genetics of extreme longevity (14:18) Longevity in the animal kingdom (18:26) Why do we age, and the realities of extending lifespan (31:22) How long can we live? (39:01) NAD coenzymes and DNA repair (43:49) "Anti-ageing" products (55:17) Conflicts of interest and the integrity of scientific claims (1:01:08) Discovering nicotinamide riboside (NR) (vitamin B3) (1:03:19) Sirtui

Episode #271. Have you ever wondered just how much of an effect antibiotics have on your health? Gastroenterologist and gut health expert Dr Will Bulsiewicz returns to the show in this episode, breaking down how antibiotics impact our microbiome and the steps you can take to protect and restore your gut health before, during, and after taking them. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) What are antibiotics? (03:01) Efficacy, prescription, and 'antibiotic scar' (08:26) The healthy gut microbiome (15:58) Effects of antibiotics to gut the microbiome (21:32) Clostridioides difficile (28:30) Do you really need antibiotics? (31:04) High-fibre diet (39:44) Sprouts, lentils, and fermented foods (43:25) Prebiotics and prebiotic supplements (46:30) Probiotics and microbiome recovery after antibiotics (58:06) Who may benefit from taking probiotics? (1:05:00) Foods to limit to avoid dysbiosis (1:07:45) Why do antibiotics cause yeast infections? Do probiotics help? (1:09:35) Antibiotics and small intesti

Episode #270. If you’ve ever been confused by the sea of women’s health misinformation, you’re not alone. Join me as I sit down with Dr Jen Gunter, internationally celebrated OB/GYN and New York Times bestselling author, to dispel disinformation with evidence. We address everything from yeast infections to birth control, compounded hormones, and menopausal hormone therapy. This isn’t just a health masterclass, but also a critical conversation about the misinformation and disinformation that is pervasive in women's health discussions: essential listening for anyone who cares about promoting an equitable health landscape. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Dr. Jen Gunter on Gynecology (2:56) Misinformation vs disinformation (8:11) Western medicine and the truth about supplements (15:16) Tips for discerning online information (20:43) Yeast infection and how to really treat it (29:42) Can diet treat yeast infection? (38:04) Is a vaginal microbiome test necessary? (44:52) Understanding menstruation

Episode #269. Dive into the heart of controversial nutrition studies and discover the surprising complexities behind everyday food choices with Professor Gardner, a respected authority in the field of nutrition science. As we navigate the maze of dietary patterns, this insightful conversation bridges the gap between scientific evidence and practical nutrition, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health. We discuss: Intro (00:00) A twin study is in the works (4:06) Plant-based meat vs. red meat (8:53) How to make homemade kombucha (18: 40) Different diets for athletic performance (the SWAP-MEAT trial) (23:02) Feedback from athletes (37:21) Which popular diets are truly heart-healthy? (40:35) How different diets measure up to health guidelines (49:12) Practical insights for doctors and patients (55:07) The truth about low fat, vegan diet (59:36) Controversies vs consensus in nutrition (1:02:45) The food industry and medical institutions (1:10:19) Low-fat & low-carb diets for weigh

Episode #268. Ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice? In this episode, I sit down with Dr Matthew Nagra, a naturopathic doctor with a passion for plant-based nutrition. Together, we debunk common nutrition myths and bring clarity to some hot topics. Dr Nagra's evidence-based perspective will guide you through the noise, helping you make informed dietary decisions. From understanding biases to breaking down the facts about phytates and gluten, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the nutrition landscape with more clarity and confidence. We discuss: Intro (00:00) Dr. Matthew Nagra's health journey (3:24) The dangers of misinformation (7:49) Does Matthew Nagra is biased vegan (11:39) Dr. Matthew's approach to nutrition studies (15:00) Does plants are trying to kill us? (18:42) Does unprocessed red meat increase the risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease? (28:20) Are Food Frequency Questionnaires reliable? (38:43) Tucker Goodrich and the seed oil debate (40:16) What oil you should us

Episode #267. Join me for a deep dive into the influence of the gut microbiome on inflammation and metabolic disease. In this fascinating exchange with Dr Suzanne Devkota, we explore the role of the gut in these conditions, shedding light on food allergies, IBD, and obesity. You’ll learn the practical tips you need to nurture a healthy microbiome, as well as gain a better understanding of what we do – and don’t – know about this incredible system. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) The evolving field of microbiome research (02:13) Gut microbe on social media (09:32) Microbiome definition (12:48) Why the focus on gut bacteria? (13:55) Differences in Microbes (16:02) Microbial shifts and adaptations (18:45) Microbes perturbations (21:35) Human microbiome in evolution (23:54) Healthy microbiome and diversity (27:47) Is the microbiome the sole driver of metabolic diseases? (33:05) Dietary patterns and FODMAP intolerance (41:07) Saturated fat and gut health (49:15) Microbiome metabolites and he

Episode #266. Learn the key pillars for a healthy diet from the world’s most cited nutrition scientist, Dr Walter Willett. In this two-hour exchange, Dr Willett shares the cornerstones of a healthy diet, providing the practical guidance you need to live a long, healthy life. We discuss: Introduction (00:00) Which Foods Should You Eat to Stay Healthy? (04:10) Does the Quality of Foods Matter? (06:39) The Impact of the Average American Diet on Health (08:29) Do We Have Sufficient Evidence on How Nutrition Impacts Our Health? (11:05) Key Tasks/Leaves to Make Healthy Choices (14:03) How Diet Patterns Have Changed from the 70s till Now (15:09) Walter Willet: A Nutrition Story (18:20) Ancel Keys' Research on Fat (19:40) Three Large Observation Studies by Walter Willet and His Team (27:19) Advantages of Large Observation Studies over Randomized Control Trials (32:45) Correlation and Causation in Nutrition (39:15) Food Frequency Questionnaire: Importance of Methods for Measuring Dietary Intake (50:58)

Episode #265. Escaping an echo chamber and admitting that you have changed your mind ­– particularly when you have a large, engaged audience – is no easy feat. In this conversation, I sit down with Thomas DeLauer to break down some of the existing walls between different dietary camps, opening the conversation around nuance and an open-minded approach. We cover: Intro (00:00) Simon makes assumptions about Thomas DeLauer (5:03) Thomas on working out (6:58) Biohacking (8:37) Cold plunges and saunas (9:35) Thomas DeLauer and alcohol (15:51) Tea or coffee (18:50) Battling and overcoming obesity (20:39) Low-carb vs low-fat diet (31:06) Unprocessed vs. ultra-processed diets (39:04) Benefits of CGM for non-diabetic (47:10) Saturated fat and insulin resistance (52:09) What Thomas and Simon's diets look like (1:02:29) Do we need fibre? (1:10:18) Food intolerances (1:17:40) Changing lifestyle after traumatic event (1:23:17) Strategies for a healthier lifestyle (1:26:15) Calorie Counting and Intermitt

Episode #264. Every day for more than 20 years, Adam Sud woke up to a life that didn’t feel like a safe, secure, or hopeful place to be. Struggling with mental health from an early age and relying on addiction as the only dependable “solution”, he spent years facing each day as the most painful one he’d ever had. More than a decade on from the turning point in his journey towards recovery, Adam shares his story and some defining realisations that helped shaped the life he is now excited to experience. Everyone has something to learn from Adam’s story. Regardless of whether you have personally struggled with addiction and mental health, Adam’s profound understanding of behaviour and mindset will resonate with you, and potentially even shift the way you look at your life. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Adam Sud on recovery (04:15) Why expressing love can be difficult (08:55) Substance use disorder (Drug addiction) (14:37) Adam's story (16:46) Nurturing a child with ADHD (24:42) Becoming hooked

Episode #263. Delve into the complex world of neurodegenerative diseases in this evidence-loaded episode with Drs Dean and Ayesha Sherzai. Unpack the current scientific understanding of diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, bust popular food myths related to brain health, and discover actionable lifestyle tips for long-term brain health. Join us on this evidence-based journey that blends science with practical, real-life advice. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Drs. Ayesha and Dean play True or False (04:11) Is amyloid plaque the primary cause of Alzheimer's? (05:47) Whole grains, gluten, and brain health (07:11) Artificial intelligence for Alzheimer's disease (14:11) Drs. Ayesha and Dean on Melbourne (17:11) Is olive oil good for brain health? (20:13) What's the beef with red meat? (24:32) Keeping the brain healthy with omega 3 fatty acids (35:25) APOE4 and omega 3 supplementation (48:27) Cognitive changes in midlife (54:47) Reaction to Dr. Michael Klapper's U-turn on omega 3 supplem

Episode #262. Discover the science of getting older without getting old in this conversation with Dr Andrew Steele. From understanding what impacts your lifespan to revealing potential future scientific breakthroughs, this episode is an intriguing journey into the world of aging science. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Dr. Andrew Steele on aging (01:38) Age-related diseases and lifespan extension (10:47) Genetic factors, lifestyle, and gene editing for longevity (19:18) Could gene editing help solve poor cholesterol? (27:52) Rapamycin vs metformin for longevity (34:21) The need for expert consensus on anti-aging interventions (39:47) Insights on Bryan Johnson's Project Blueprint (47:50) What are senolytic drugs? (51:24) Yamanaka factors: is aging reversible at a cellular level? (1:05:18) The rationale behind reversing aging and the future of interventions (1:17:42) Lifestyle changes that slow the clock (1:25:40) Calorie restriction and longevity (1:32:41) Air quality, smoking, and vapin