ZOE Science & Nutrition

Dr. Uma Naidoo, a Harvard nutritional psychiatrist, sheds light on the alarming rise of anxiety, particularly post-pandemic, and its deep links to gut health. She discusses how food choices can influence mental well-being, highlighting the impact of gut bacteria on emotions and serotonin levels. Dr. Naidoo provides actionable dietary tips, emphasizing a fiber-rich, plant-based approach and cautioning against sugar's detrimental effects. Tune in for insights on how to nourish your mind through food for improved mental health.

In this engaging discussion, Professor Sarah Berry, a leading expert in cardio-metabolic health, dives into how diet can dramatically influence cholesterol levels. She elaborates on the benefits of the Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, as a sustainable choice for heart health. Misconceptions about dietary fats are debunked, emphasizing quality over quantity. Sarah also shares practical tips for making smart dietary swaps to promote better cholesterol management, urging listeners to rethink their eating habits for improved cardiovascular health.

Dr. Jennifer Ashton, a leading expert in women's health and former ABC News Chief Medical Correspondent, teams up with Prof. Sarah Berry, a nutrition professor at King's College London. They delve into how diet influences gynecological health, emphasizing 'nutritional gynecology' and its effects on the vaginal microbiome. They reveal the surprising connections between nutrition and menopause symptoms, explore dietary strategies for managing conditions like PCOS, and highlight the importance of a diverse, plant-based diet for overall well-being.

In this enlightening discussion, Christopher Gardner, a Professor at Stanford University and expert on protein and health, tackles the craze over high-protein products like ice cream and cereals. He dispels myths about protein needs, revealing that more isn't always better. Gardner shares insights on how athletes calculate their protein requirements and the unique ways our bodies store carbs, fats, and proteins. His perspective encourages smarter food choices and a deeper understanding of dietary needs for optimal health.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Jenna Macciochi, a Senior Lecturer in Immunology at the University of Sussex and author on immunity, emphasizes that the immune system thrives on balance, not boosting. She explores the critical roles of gut health and micronutrients, debunking the myth that a weak immune system causes illness. Jenna also examines the impact of stress and sleep on immune function, and whether supplements like Vitamin C are truly necessary. Tune in for expert insights on maintaining a resilient immune system.

Professor Karyn Esser, a leading expert in muscle strength and circadian rhythms at the University of Florida, sheds light on how our muscle strength varies throughout the day. Discover why late afternoons, particularly around 4 to 5 PM, are prime times for peak performance. Delving into the interplay of circadian rhythms and gene expression, she explains how timing can enhance muscle recovery and exercise efficiency. Karyn also discusses the impact of aging on these rhythms and suggests strategies for maintaining optimal muscle health.

Join Rhiannon Lambert, a leading UK nutritionist and bestselling author, alongside Dr. Federica Amati, ZOE's Head Nutritionist and lecturer at Imperial College London. They tackle the confusion of feeding kids in a junk food world. With alarming rises in ultra-processed foods, they reveal how to decode misleading food labels and tackle the growing health concerns in children. Expect practical strategies for healthier lunchboxes, nurturing positive eating habits at home, and empowering parents to make smart food choices for their families.

James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, joins the discussion to explore how we can effectively build healthier food habits. He introduces his four laws for developing positive habits while minimizing procrastination, emphasizing the power of social influence on our choices. Clear highlights the importance of designing our environments to make healthy foods more accessible and visible, offering practical strategies to combat temptations. Small changes can lead to significant improvements in our lifestyle, making healthy eating a more achievable goal.

Dr. Kameelah Phillips, a compassionate gynecologist specializing in menopause, joins Prof. Sarah Berry, an innovative nutrition researcher, to tackle the taboo topics of sleep and intimacy during menopause. They debunk common myths about hormonal changes and share insights on how menopause affects libido and sleep quality. They highlight the importance of a balanced diet in managing symptoms and discuss practical self-care strategies. Empowering listeners, they emphasize the significance of open conversations about aging and wellness.

Professor Tim Spector, an epidemiology expert and co-founder at ZOE, teams up with Dr. Federica Amati, a leading nutritionist and author, to unravel the truth about vitamin D. They discuss the common misconceptions surrounding supplementation and its actual necessity. Hear insights into how sunlight is the best source of vitamin D and the potential risks of overdosing on supplements. The duo also emphasizes a holistic approach to nutrition, highlighting the importance of whole foods and personalized health choices.