Nutrition Facts with Dr. Greger

Is celery actually good for you? Crunch into the nutritional benefits and potential side effects of this crunchy vegetable. Learn about the concept of negative calorie foods and discover how certain foods might help you burn more calories than they contain. The discussion also highlights how even minimal physical activity significantly contributes to longevity. From the origins of the 10,000 steps goal to the comparative health effects of exercise versus medication, this conversation is packed with surprising insights.

Dr. Christine Dennis, a Senior Research Scientist, discusses the troubling rise of antibiotic resistance stemming from agricultural practices. She highlights how antibiotic use in livestock creates superbugs that threaten public health. The conversation covers the surprising findings that vegans possess fewer antibiotic-resistance genes compared to meat-eaters. Dennis also shares alarming data on drug residues in meat and links between poultry consumption and urinary tract infections, urging a reevaluation of food safety and dietary choices.

This discussion dives into the intriguing world of psychedelic research, highlighting the challenges and future directions in placebo-controlled trials. There's a cautionary tale about hidden salt in 'whole food' products, emphasizing the importance of scrutinizing labels. Smoothies take the spotlight as a nutrient-packed breakfast choice, with tips on making them beneficial for health. Lastly, the need for innovative studies focused on diet's impact on chronic diseases reflects a passionate call to action for better dietary research.

Dr. Christine Dennis, a Senior Research Scientist at Nutrition Facts, dives into the world of food additives, focusing on the controversies surrounding monosodium glutamate (MSG). She highlights MSG's potential to lower sodium intake and presents research showing that reactions to high doses are rare, primarily occurring without food. The discussion shifts to phosphate additives, revealing their links to serious health risks such as accelerated aging and increased mortality. The use of phosphates in food industries raises significant concerns for consumers, particularly those with kidney issues.

Dive into the complexities of oral lichen planus, an inflammatory condition with no definitive cure. Discover how purslane, a nutritious edible plant, shows promising results in treatment while posing minimal side effects. Learn about the safety concerns associated with aloe vera when ingested, including serious health risks. However, topical applications of aloe vera emerge as a powerful option, especially for both oral and genital lichen planus. This exploration blends nutrition with innovative treatment possibilities.

Christine Dennis, PhD, a senior research scientist at NutritionFacts.org, dives into the potential dangers of turmeric supplements, highlighting their link to liver toxicity. She explains that enhanced bioavailability through substances like piperine can raise health risks. Additionally, the discussion covers the environmental impacts of fish consumption, revealing how pollutants might offset their benefits. Dennis also warns about the neurotoxic risks associated with pawpaw fruit, linking it to serious neurological conditions. Culinary turmeric emerges as the safer alternative.

Christine Dennis, a senior research scientist and plant-based parent, shares her insights on raising plant-based kids. She discusses the suitability of well-planned diets throughout infancy and childhood, emphasizing the importance of breastfeeding and necessary DHA and B12 supplementation for vegan mothers. Dennis highlights key nutrients to monitor for veggie toddlers, such as vitamin D and iron, while reassuring listeners of the benefits, including lower LDL cholesterol levels. Her expert guidance ensures families can confidently navigate plant-based eating for their children.

Dr. Christine Dennis, a senior research scientist and dedicated plant-based parent, delves into the nutritional science of plant-based diets for kids. She discusses global nutrition associations' perspectives on vegan diets during pregnancy and childhood, addressing the ethical gaps in research. Highlighting key components of a well-planned diet, she notes maternal benefits like lower risks of gestational diabetes. The duo also examines intriguing studies suggesting vegetarian children may have higher IQs and lower obesity rates, making a strong case for plant-based eating in early development.

Explore how plant-based diets may impact prostate cancer risk and outcomes. Discover studies linking higher plant intake to lower PSA levels and cancer severity. Learn about a randomized trial showing lifestyle changes can slow progression and enhance survival after diagnosis. Hear about remarkable case reports where strict diets reversed bone metastases. Delve into potential mechanisms, including how certain dietary fats may promote cancer growth. Uncover the benefits of diet in delaying standard treatments and empowering patients.

Christine Dennis, a senior research scientist, dives into the vital topic of pesticide exposure and its implications on health. They discuss the significant drop in pesticide levels when consuming organic produce, emphasizing that even partial organic choices can help. Dennis reveals studies linking organic diets during pregnancy to reduced risks of birth defects like hypospadias. The conversation also touches on how rinsing or peeling produce impacts pesticide residues and the retained nutritional value. Plus, they highlight how vegetarian diets often lead to lower pollutant levels.