ZOE Science & Nutrition

Join Sandor Katz, a fermentation revivalist and bestselling author fueling a global movement, as he unpacks the magical world of at-home fermentation. He discusses the incredible benefits fermented foods offer for gut health and immune function. Katz demystifies the process, making it accessible for beginners. Listeners learn about the vital role of soil in cultivating bacteria and how to reconnect with food through fermentation. Get ready for practical tips to transform your kitchen into a fermentation hub!

Sarah Berry, a renowned nutrition professor at King’s College London and ZOE’s chief scientist, unpacks the confusion surrounding ultra-processed foods (UPFs). She explains how misleading classifications can complicate healthy eating, highlighting that some processed foods may actually benefit nutrition. Berry discusses how UPFs affect satiety and hunger signals, revealing their link to overeating. She also shares insights on the importance of incorporating diverse plant-based foods for gut health and the ongoing efforts to improve understanding of food processing's impact on our diets.

In this enlightening discussion, renowned expert Dr. Gideon Lack, who has revolutionized our understanding of allergy prevention, sheds light on the rising prevalence of allergies and the conflicting advice surrounding them. He shares his ‘lightbulb moment’ that changed the game in allergy research. The conversation dives into the impact of gut health on overall well-being and how dietary choices can protect against allergies from infancy. Listen in for potentially life-saving insights that may challenge everything you thought you knew about allergies.

In this engaging conversation, Prof. Stuart Phillips, a leading expert in protein and muscle health, teams up with Dr. Federica Amati, ZOE's head nutritionist. They tackle the myths around protein intake and the significant role it plays in aging and muscle maintenance. Stuart shares insights on when and how much protein we truly need, while Federica emphasizes personalized nutrition approaches. They also explore the risks of low protein intake, the advantages of whole food sources, and the importance of balancing diet with fitness for optimal health.

In this engaging discussion, Professor John Cryan, a world-leading expert in the gut-brain axis, reveals how our gut acts as a 'second brain.' He highlights the profound impact of gut microbes on mood, memory, and neurological health. The conversation explores how diet influences brain function and emotional well-being, emphasizing the importance of nurturing the microbiome across various life stages. Professor Cryan also shares insights on how Mediterranean diets can enhance cognitive function, making a compelling case for gut health's role in overall brain wellness.

Join Dr. Bill Harris, a pioneering omega-3 fatty acid researcher, and Professor Sarah Berry as they unpack the critical link between omega-3s and brain health. They delve into how these fatty acids impact cognitive function, mood regulation, and long-term resilience against neurodegenerative conditions. Discover the nuances between EPA and DHA, unravel common misconceptions about plant sources and mercury in fish, and learn how to improve your omega-3 levels for optimal mental well-being.

Dr. Vonda Wright, a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon and best-selling author, shares her insights on the importance of muscle beyond just aesthetics. She explains how muscle acts as a metabolic powerhouse for energy and blood sugar control, challenging common weight-loss beliefs. The conversation covers the dangers of high blood sugar, the misconception that it's too late to build muscle, and how maintaining muscle mass is essential for healthy aging. Vonda also introduces strategies for strength training and nutrition tailored for women during the aging process.

Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi, known as “Dr. A,” is a globally renowned OBGYN advocating for women's health and breast cancer awareness. In this enlightening discussion, she reveals that many women may not fully understand their breast cancer risk, often relying too heavily on standard screenings. Dr. Aliabadi shares her own shocking experience of uncovering a hidden risk and emphasizes the limitations of mammograms, especially for those with dense breast tissue. She also explores how diet and lifestyle choices can significantly influence health outcomes.

Join olive oil grower Elizabeth Berger, who shares her expertise on this celebrated superfood, alongside Professor Tim Spector. They unveil the impressive health benefits of extra virgin olive oil, including its role in reducing inflammation and boosting heart health. Discover the best practices for storing and choosing high-quality oil, as well as the importance of freshness for maximum health benefits. Plus, they discuss how Mediterranean dietary habits enhance these advantages, proving that olive oil truly deserves its 'liquid gold' reputation.

Quirijn de Mast, an infectious disease specialist at Radboud University, shares insights from his groundbreaking study on traditional African diets in Tanzania. He highlights the dramatic health benefits of fermented foods, ancient grains, and legumes. Participants saw impressive improvements in immune function and gut health after switching away from processed foods. Quirijn emphasizes the need for dietary diversity to reduce inflammation, advocating for a return to these nutrient-rich traditional diets as a solution to rising chronic diseases.