ZOE and personalised nutrition: does the evidence on glucose tracking add up?
Jul 9, 2024
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Learn about the modern obsession with blood sugar monitoring and personalized nutrition, including debates on the effectiveness of glucose tracking. Hear from experts discussing the impact of glucose on health, the challenges of interpreting continuous glucose monitor data, and the benefits of personalized nutrition programs. Explore the role of self-monitoring in health practices and the importance of a holistic approach to overall well-being.
29:08
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Quick takeaways
Nutrition apps like ZOE focus on personalized blood glucose tracking for insights into food processing.
Concerns about nutritionism prioritize nutrients over holistic eating, raising questions on the science behind personalized nutrition.
Deep dives
Personalized Nutrition and Blood Glucose Monitoring
Personalized nutrition apps based on blood glucose monitoring like Zoe are gaining popularity. The rise of 'nutritionism' where nutrients are prioritized over holistic eating is a concern. Comprehending the effectiveness of personalized nutrition in healthy individuals remains a challenge, with the discrepancy between ongoing research and actionable advice being highlighted.
Blood Glucose and Health Outcomes
Blood glucose levels in diabetes can cause tissue damage, but the impact in non-diabetic individuals is less defined. Glucose spikes post-meal are common and not necessarily detrimental. Glucose monitoring companies attempt to offer personalized advice, yet skepticism remains regarding the utility of such interventions based on current scientific evidence.
The Concept of Personalization and Variances in Glucose Responses
CGM data reveals the variability in glucose responses between individuals. Personalized nutrition guidance based on glucose levels may overlook factors influencing these responses, such as exercise or previous meals. Studies comparing the impact of personalized nutrition programs versus standard advice show some health improvements, but long-term effectiveness and specificity of these interventions are still under scrutiny.
You might have noticed that everyone has recently become a bit obsessed with blood sugar, or glucose. Wellness firms such as ZOE here in the UK – as well as Nutrisense, Levels and Signos – claim to offer insights into how our bodies process food based on monitoring our blood glucose, among other things. But many researchers have begun to question the science behind this. To find out what we know about blood glucose levels and our health, and whether the science is nailed down on personalised nutrition, Ian Sample hears from philosopher Julian Baggini, academic dietician Dr Nicola Guess of Oxford University and ZOE’s chief scientist, and associate professor at Kings College London, Dr Sarah Berry. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/sciencepod
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