ZOE Science & Nutrition

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.

Tim Spector, a nutritional science expert and author of "Food For Life," joins Merlin Sheldrake, a fungi specialist, to dive into the fascinating world of mushrooms. They reveal the surprising health benefits and unique nutrients mushrooms offer, along with tips on enhancing their flavor through cooking. Safety in foraging is stressed, including proper identification and cultivation practices. Listeners are encouraged to explore diverse mushroom varieties for a rich culinary experience, making mushrooms a delightful addition to their diets.

Dr. Federica Amati, ZOE's Head Nutritionist and lecturer at Imperial College London, challenges popular beliefs about protein supplements. She discusses the often-misunderstood role of protein in diets, highlighting that most people likely consume enough through regular foods. Amati also critiques the ultra-processed nature of many protein bars and shakes, emphasizing the importance of whole food sources. She addresses common myths around protein needs post-workout and advocates for more balanced nutrition over marketing hype.

Join Professor Tim Spector, a renowned researcher on ultra-processed foods and author of 'Food For Life,' as he teams up with Dr. Chris van Tulleken to unpack the hidden dangers of our everyday diets. They explore why ultra-processed foods are so addictive and the critical differences between them and regular processed items. The duo sheds light on misleading food labels and the deceptive nature of low-fat products, revealing how our choices are often guided by profit-driven marketing rather than genuine health benefits.

Dr. Karan Rajan is an NHS surgeon and health communicator known for debunking medical myths. He dives into the intriguing concept of the gut as the body's 'second brain' and explores its significant role in mental health and cravings. Karan discusses common lifestyle factors that harm gut health, the rise in inflammatory bowel diseases, and the critical impact of antibiotics on gut microbiomes. He emphasizes the need for diverse plant-based diets and unveils why understanding IBS is a complex challenge for both patients and doctors.