STOP! and Read the Labels with Jen Smiley

Aug 28, 2024

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In this episode of "Vibe Science," hosts Ryan Alford and Chris Hansen get "Smiley" with Jen Smiley, a master food coach and founder of "Wake Up and Read the Labels." Jen shares her inspiring journey of overcoming health challenges by learning to decipher food labels and identify harmful ingredients. The conversation delves into the critical role of label reading, debunking common food myths, and making informed, healthier choices. Jen emphasizes the importance of avoiding gluten, unhealthy oils, and processed foods, advocating instead for a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods. This episode empowers listeners to take control of their health by offering practical tips for cleaner eating and making more conscious nutrition decisions.

TAKEAWAYS

Importance of reading food labels and understanding ingredients
Personal health challenges and journey towards nutrition awareness
Common misconceptions about food and ingredients
Hidden ingredients in processed foods and their health impacts
The role of the corporate food industry in food quality and transparency
Recommendations for healthier food alternatives
The significance of clean eating and its positive effects on health
Identifying and eliminating harmful ingredients from the diet
The impact of diet on physical and mental well-being
Resources and support for improving nutrition and ingredient awareness

TIMESTAMPS

Introduction to Vibe Science (00:00:00)
Introduction to the podcast and hosts, Ryan Alford and Chris Hansen.

Welcoming Jen Smiley (00:00:16)
Hosts welcome guest Jen Smiley and discuss her expertise in food coaching.

Jen's Health Journey (00:01:02)
Jen shares her personal health challenges and the start of her journey to better nutrition.

The Wake Up Mission (00:03:00)
Jen describes her mission to read and understand food labels for healthier choices.

Empowering Others (00:04:05)
Jen emphasizes that anyone can learn to read labels and make informed food choices.

Recognizing Ingredients (00:04:50)
Discussion on the importance of recognizing ingredients that are unfamiliar or unpronounceable.

The Oats Controversy (00:07:32)
Jen talks about the hidden dangers of oats, including glyphosate and high glycemic impact.

Finding Clean Alternatives (00:09:27)
Discussion on alternatives to unhealthy oat products and the importance of clean swaps.

Protein and Inflammation (00:12:12)
Jen explains the benefits of collagen protein over traditional whey protein for reducing inflammation.

Navigating Oils (00:15:00)
Advice on which oils to avoid and which are healthier options for cooking and consumption.

Quality Over Quantity (00:19:30)
Discussion on finding quality oils in stores and avoiding toxic ingredients in mainstream products.

Understanding Additives (00:20:09)
Jen explains the role of silicon dioxide as an anti-caking agent in spices and its implications.

Understanding Spices and Ingredients (00:20:43)
Discussion on how spices clump together and the importance of ingredient awareness.

Silicon Dioxide and Mono & Diglycerides (00:21:19)
Jen highlights harmful ingredients like silicon dioxide and mono & diglycerides in food products.

The Complexity of Food Labels (00:22:17)
Conversation on how the food industry complicates nutrition and the need for simplicity.

Healthy Grocery Shopping Tips (00:23:49)
Advice on sticking to whole foods found on the grocery store's perimeter for better health.

The Impact of Processed Foods (00:24:41)
Discussion on the prevalence of processed foods in fitness communities and their health implications.

Prioritizing Ingredient Elimination (00:26:59)
Jen outlines the most harmful ingredients to eliminate from diets, starting with gluten.

The Effects of Gluten and Dairy (00:28:48)
Importance of avoiding gluten and dairy for reducing inflammation and improving health.

Positive Outcomes of Dietary Changes (00:31:56)
Jen shares transformative health benefits experienced by individuals after improving their diets.

Engaging with Jen's Community (00:33:46)
Information on how listeners can connect with Jen for resources and nutritional guidance.

Final Thoughts and Encouragement (00:35:07)
Encouragement to follow Jen and educate oneself about healthy eating and ingredient awareness.

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