Dr. Matthew Nagra discusses the benefits of plant-based diets in upgrading health, including bone health from EPIC-Oxford study, naturopathy, nutrients/supplements in animal-based food reduction. Topics cover protein, soy, lectins, cooking oils, and personal food philosophy. Addressing common misconceptions and nutrient needs in plant-based diets, emphasizing iodine, selenium, and third-party tested supplements. Exploring evidence-based nutrition, LDL as cardiovascular risk factor, and ancestral diets.
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Quick takeaways
Plant-based diets support heart health by reducing cardiovascular risk.
Incorporating Omega-3 rich foods like flax seeds and walnuts benefits brain and heart health.
Gradual dietary changes empower individuals to sustainably transition to healthier eating habits.
Regular monitoring of key nutrients through blood tests is crucial for optimal health outcomes.
Deep dives
The Importance of Omega-3s from Plant Sources
Getting sufficient long chain Omega-3s, like EPA and DHA, from plant sources is crucial for health. Ground flax seeds, chia seeds, and walnuts are excellent plant-based sources of Omega-3s. These foods can help double the recommended daily intake to over three grams, supporting cardiovascular health and other related conditions.
Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet on Cardiometabolic Health
The adoption of a plant-based diet has shown significant benefits for heart health. Studies like the Leon Diet Heart Study and Pretermed Study highlight the reduced risk of cardiovascular events in individuals following a plant-based diet. Notably, there was a 72% lower risk of major cardiac events in those following a Mediterranean diet in the Leon Diet Heart Study.
The Role of Omega-3 Supplementation
Omega-3 supplementation, especially for those not consuming direct sources like fish, can serve as an important insurance policy for health. Ground flax seeds provide ALA, which can convert to DHA and EPA in the body, supporting brain and heart health. Algae-based supplements offer a vegan-friendly source of DHA and EPA, potentially absorbed better than fish oil and krill oil.
Incorporating a Plant-Based Diet for Neurological Health
Diet rich in berries, dark leafy greens, walnuts, and other plant foods can be beneficial for brain health. The MIND diet emphasizes these foods while reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
Importance of Dietary Choices in Addressing Cardiovascular Health
Different dietary options, such as the Mediterranean diet, plant-based diet, and the portfolio diet, can significantly impact cardiovascular health by lowering LDL cholesterol and reducing the risk of cardiac events. Providing patients with diverse nutritional information empowers them to make informed choices, leading to positive outcomes such as reduced LDL levels and alleviation of chest pain.
Tailoring Dietary Approaches for Improved Health Outcomes
Individualized dietary modifications, whether adjusting familiar meals to be healthier or gradually transitioning to a new diet, offer effective strategies for improving health. By gradually introducing nutritious options tailored to personal preferences, individuals can sustainably transition to healthier eating habits, promoting long-term well-being.
Impact of Slow Dietary Changes on Health Journey
Incorporating gradual dietary changes, rather than expecting overnight transformations, allows individuals to experiment with new foods and flavors, facilitating long-lasting healthy eating habits. By focusing on one meal at a time and gradually expanding dietary variety, individuals can develop sustainable dietary practices that support overall health and well-being.
Cautious Approach to Dietary Supplements and Nutrient Monitoring
While supplements like vitamin B12, vitamin D, omega-3, and iodine play essential roles in supporting overall health, it is crucial to adopt a mindful approach to their consumption. Regular monitoring of key nutrients through targeted blood tests can help individuals assess their nutritional status and make informed decisions about supplement use for optimal health outcomes.
In Episode #113, I sat down with Dr Matthew Nagra to talk about how he uses evidence-based nutrition science to help his patients upgrade their health. If you are looking for an episode that consolidates several topics previously raised on the show, along with findings from new research, then I think you will really enjoy this episode.
We talked about the latest EPIC-Oxford study on bone health, the health advantages of people who adopt plant-predominant or exclusive diets, naturopathy as a form of health care, and important nutrients and supplements for people reducing their consumption of animal-based foods. Dr Nagra shared how he helps his patients make sustainable changes, his answers to the common questions he gets from patients (including questions about protein, soy, lectins, and cooking oils), and his personal food philosophy.
For more from Matthew Nagra, see Episodes #133, #197, #198, and the special debate episode.
For more insights and reflections, visit The Proof website for the full show notes.
Enjoy, friends.
Simon
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Simon Hill, Msc, Bsc (Hons)
Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill
Author of The Proof is in the Plants
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