ZOE Science & Nutrition

Dr. Eran Elinav leads the Institute for Microbiome Research and his groundbreaking studies on artificial sweeteners raise serious questions about their safety. Prof. Tim Spector, an expert in gut microbiome research, discusses individual variability in responses to these sweeteners. Together, they delve into how artificial sweeteners may disrupt gut bacteria and contribute to chronic diseases. They explore the complexities of sugar substitutes, urging listeners to reconsider these seemingly harmless ingredients and their long-term health implications.

Kanchan Koya, an expert on the health benefits of spices, shares her passion for enhancing meals through flavor and nutrition. She highlights the incredible anti-inflammatory properties of spices and offers practical tips for incorporating them into everyday cooking. Discover how everyday spices like cumin and coriander can stabilize blood sugar and promote a healthy microbiome. Koya also shares creative snack ideas, like spiced yogurt and popcorn, making healthy eating fun and accessible for everyone!

Dr. Sarah Berry, an expert in nutrition and menopause research, teams up with Emmy-winning journalist Tamsen Fadal, who reveals her shocking on-air realization of entering menopause. They explore over 50 menopause symptoms, from hot flashes to anxiety and sleep disturbances, while discussing societal stigma around these experiences. Dr. Berry introduces the innovative MennoScale tool to help women track their symptoms effectively. Plus, they share dietary tips, highlighting the Mediterranean diet's benefits for managing menopause better.

Professor Tim Spector, a leading expert in nutritional science and author, joins Professor Cyrus Cooper to discuss the often-overlooked issue of bone health. They reveal that osteoporosis affects many over 50 and emphasize the importance of preventive measures. Discover how dietary quality, focusing on a plant-rich diet, plays a crucial role in bone strength. The conversation also challenges common myths about calcium while underlining the necessity of weight-bearing exercises to maintain bone density throughout life.

Carleigh Bodrug, a best-selling cookbook author passionate about plant-based cuisine, joins Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, a board-certified gastroenterologist and gut health expert. They tackle food waste, revealing that nearly 40% of food is discarded, and highlight the value of using scraps like carrot tops and spent coffee grounds. They discuss the myths around expiry dates, the benefits of sensory checks for freshness, and how 'scrappy cooking' can enhance nutrition while saving money. Their insights promise a healthier planet and a more sustainable diet.

Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, an expert in stress management, shares invaluable insights on tackling stress's detrimental effects on health. He discusses practical strategies like the '3-4-5' breathing technique and box breathing, which promote relaxation and well-being. The connection between exercise and stress relief is highlighted, emphasizing tailored physical activities for resilience. Chatterjee also advocates integrating healthy habits into daily life, encouraging a mindful approach to reduce distractions and foster sustainable routines.

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Tim Spector, a leading epidemiologist and co-founder of ZOE, shares key lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. He delves into the evolution of symptom tracking and the importance of personalized nutrition. The conversation highlights the effectiveness of health measures like face masks and vaccines, scrutinizes the long-term impacts on mental health, and underscores how dietary choices can bolster immunity. Dr. Spector also addresses the complexities of long COVID and emphasizes the critical role of nutrition in future health strategies.

Dr. Peter Attia, an expert in preventative medicine, discusses the critical need for proactive heart health measures. He highlights alarming statistics about cardiovascular disease, urging the importance of prevention over treatment. Attia critiques the medical system's focus on procedural solutions and emphasizes the gaps in healthcare training concerning nutrition and exercise. He advocates for individual empowerment to take control of health and improve quality of life through smarter lifestyle choices.

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.