Diet Science
Episodes
The Power of Pili Nuts
10 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Encased in a black shell that resembles a minature avocado lies the powerful pili nut, a type of tropical tree nut indigenous to the Philippines. Li...
Berry Dirty: Why Blackberries Made the 2025 Dirty Dozen
03 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This week, Dee dives into the recently released Environmental Working Group's (EWG) 2025 Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce, commonly ...
New Blood Test Can Reveal Your Ultra-Processed Food Intake
30 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In a groundbreaking new study, researchers have developed a blood and urine test capable of identifying how much ultra-processed food is in your di...
Sorghum: The Supergrain Hiding in Plain Sight
12 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
From its impressive nutritional profile to its role in blood sugar balance and gut health, sorghum just might be the next superfood you’ve never hea...
Methyl Adaptogens: Your New Anti-Aging Dream Team
04 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
The results of a new study shows that consumption of polyphenols in certain foods--known as methyl adaptogens--can turn back your biological clock. Li...
Cocoa and Carob: A Sweet Duo for Managing Diabetes
27 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A new study shows that a specific blend of cocoa and carob powder improves metabolic health markers in people with Type 2 diabetes. Listen in this wee...
Can You Be Healthy with High Cholesterol?
20 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Groundbreaking new research challenges conventional beliefs about cholesterol and heart disease. A one-year prospective study of 100 metabolically hea...
Thyroid Signals: What Your Body’s Symptoms Are Really Saying
13 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
If you’re struggling with fatigue, chronic constipation, weight gain, or weight loss resistance, an underactive thyroid could be the hidden cause. L...
Talkin’ Tallow: Is This Rendered Beef Fat Good for Your Health?
07 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Beef tallow, aka rendered beef fat, was once a staple in American home cooking and fast-food kitchens throughout much of the 20th century. Though it d...
Longtime Efforts to Ban Artificial Food Dyes & Preservatives Finally Coming to Fruition!
30 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In March 2011, Processed-Free America (aka Center for Processed-Free Living) submitted arguments against artificial food coloring to the United States...
Prickly Power: Unlocking the Health Benefits of Red Cactus Pears
23 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A staple of the Native American diet for centuries, Red Cactus Pears are packed with incredible health benefits. Listen in this week as Dee discusses...
Alpha Lipoic Acid: The Universal Antioxidant
16 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Known as the "universal antioxidant," alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerhouse for fighting oxidative stress and supporting overall health. Listen in t...
Stop the Microplastics Mayhem! Proactive Steps to Minimize Exposure
09 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles—smaller than a grain of sand—shed from bottles, bags, tires, synthetic fabrics, and even cosmetics. Linke...
Can Eating Grapes Keep Your Muscles Strong as You Age?
03 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Could eating a simple bowl of grapes be the key to stronger muscles? A groundbreaking study says yes—especially in aging women. Listen in this week ...
Boost Your Brainpower with Walnuts for Breakfast
24 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Could your breakfast choice set the tone for sharper thinking all day long? A new study says yes, especially if your breakfast includes walnuts. Liste...
The Probiotic Shield: Yogurt’s Role in Colon Cancer Risk
15 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A recent study suggests that long-term yogurt consumption, which typically contains a genus of probiotic Bifidobacterium, is associated with a 20% de...
Heart-Healthy Sips: How 3 Red Juices Can Lower Blood Pressure
09 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
February is Heart Health Month, making it the perfect time to explore the power of nutrition to naturally lower high blood pressure. Listen in this we...
Acetylcholine: Nature's Nootropic for Boosting Brain Function
02 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Acetylcholine enhances memory, focus, and muscle function, earning its reputation as a natural nootropic. But, as we age, the body's ability to produc...
Why Iodine Deficiency is Making a Comeback
26 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A century ago, goiters resulting from iodine deficiency were rampant in people living in inland states from Appalachia and the Great Lakes to the nort...
A Win for Safer Foods: FDA Finally Bans Red Dye No. 3
19 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In response to a 2022 color additive petition from consumer advocacy groups, the FDA has finally put a ban on the use of food dye no. 3, a synthetic f...
Knobby but Nice: Why Celery Root Deserves a Spot on Your Plate
12 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Celery root (aka celeriac) is an underrated vegetable with big health benefits Listen in this week as Dee explores what makes celery root sp...
The Power of Zinc: Immune Health and Beyond
05 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the midst of cold and flu season, zinc is a powerhouse mineral essential for a strong immune system. It is also important for wound healing, testos...
The Cancer Connection: Seed Oils vs. Omega-3s
29 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Two studies published in the same week reveal how seed oils like canola, corn, soy and cottonseed may increase inflammation, creating a pathway for ca...
Peeling Back the Benefits: The Wonders of Banana Peel Flour
22 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Peeling Back the Benefits: The Wonders of Banana Peel FlourMost people discard banana peels and only eat the fruit inside. However, research shows tha...
Cocoa Science: A Surprising Health Hack
15 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
It is widely known that episodes of high stress, even short ones, temporarily impair artery function. To make things worse, people often eat high-fat ...
Fat Cell Recall: Why Losing Weight Isn’t the End of the Story
08 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Why do people regain weight more quickly than expected after successfully losing it? Research shows that once someone has been overweight or obese, th...
Cutting Out Sugar Can Positively Change Your Health Within Days or Weeks--Not Months or Years
02 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Reducing sugar intake not only protects you from the negative effects of overconsumption but also offers surprising benefits that you can experience q...
Why the 2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans Likely Won't Take a Stance Against Ultra-Processed Foods
24 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A promising change for the USDA's 2025 Dietary Guidelines to suggest limiting or avoiding ultra-processed foods has been dashed. A scientific advisor...
The Science Behind Your Morning Cup: Health Benefits of Coffee
17 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
While its caffeine content is known for improving cognitive function, the true heroes of coffee are its antioxidants and polyphenols. These compounds ...
Hops & Health: The Surprising Benefits of Beer’s Key Ingredient
10 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Does beer have a secret superpower? Research shows that moderate, mindful beer enjoyment might be a little healthier than you think. Listen in this we...
Air Fryers: Healthy Hack or Just Hype?
03 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Air fryers have become a popular kitchen tool, and they're generally considered a safer way to create a crispy texture to foods than deep frying, but ...
Green and White: How Pepitas and Pumpkin Seeds Boost the Immune System
27 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
'Tis the season for pumping up immune health with pumpkin seeds! Listen in this week as Dee explains the differences between green pumpkin seeds (also...
Grounded in Wellness: The Science Behind Earthing
20 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Grounding, also known as earthing, is a simple concept that involves connecting the human body with the energy naturally present in the earth. Listen ...
The Arthritis-Nightshade Connection: Myth or Reality?
13 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
There is scant scientific evidence that compounds found in nightshade vegetables—such as tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and eggplants—aggravate the ...
The Health Secrets of Camel Milk
06 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Unlike cow milk, camel milk has low levels of lactose, fat, and cholesterol, and is naturally non allergenic. Once only available in the middle east a...
Mono and Diglycerides: Unmasking the Hidden Trans Fats in Your Food
29 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The FDA required food manufacturers to remove artificial trans fats from their products by June 18, 2018, due to their negative impact on health. Des...
Apeel On Your Produce May Not Be Appealing!
22 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Apeel is an edible coating made of fatty acids that is used on apples and other produce, both conventional and organically grown, designed to extend t...
The Dark Side of Dark Chocolate: Heavy Metals in Your Favorite Brands
15 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A recent study found that dark chocolate and other cocoa products are contaminated with lead and cadmium, two neurotoxic metals associated with cancer...
Study Shows Mediterranean Diet May Reduce Your Risk of Covid-19
08 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A new review study involving over 55,000 people showed that those who chose specific foods while following a Mediterranean Style Diet were less likely...
Does the Vegan Diet Outshine the Mediterranean Diet for Weight Loss and Cardiovascular Health?
01 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A recent study suggests that a low-fat vegan diet is more effective than a Mediterranean diet for reducing inflammation and promoting weight loss. Lis...
The AGE Conundrum: Are Your Favorite Foods Harming You?
26 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The AGE Conundrum: Are Your Favorite Foods Harming You?Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) are harmful compounds lurking in everyday foods that ha...
Recent Study Sparks New Concerns that Erythritol Increases Risk for Heart Attacks and Strokes
18 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Erythritol is a common sweetener used in baked goods, beverages, gum, and candy, and is often found in keto-friendly and other reduced-sugar products....
Heart Health & EVOO: Why Less May Be More
12 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association explores the effects of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) on cholesterol and heart ...
Monch Monch: An Innovative Biohack to Reduce the Impact of Sugar Consumption
04 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Monch Monch is a revolutionary, tasteless powder that you mix with water before meals to block sugar absorption and minimize insulin and glucose spike...
Gut Check: The Surprising Health Impacts of How Often You Poop
29 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A new study reveals how the frequency of your bowel movements could be an important indicator of your long-term health. Infrequent poopers showed sign...
S. Boulardii Hailed as a "Super Probiotic"
21 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Saccharomyces boulardii is a strain of probiotic yeast that was first isolated from the superfoods mangosteen and lychee fruit in 1923 by the French s...
Gut Health Revolution: Apple Cider Vinegar's Role in Weight Loss
11 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Studies show that obese individuals have more Firmicutes and fewer Bacteroidetes in their gut bacteria compared to those who are not overweight. Resea...
A Newly Discovered Dietary Hazard: TMAO
08 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) is a harmful compound produced by gut bacteria. Elevated TMAO levels can significantly influence the development of hear...
Exploring the Planetary Health Diet
01 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The term "planetary health" refers to the natural systems that are essential for the health and survival of the human population. A commission of lead...
Heart Matters: Unraveling Diet, Genes, and Cardiovascular Health
23 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A study examining ancient mummies from various countries revealed that one-third of them had atherosclerosis (plaques in the arteries), a precursor to...
New Study Explains Why Alzheimer's is Being Called "Type 3 Diabetes"
16 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A new study shows that a high-fat diet suppresses the expression of a protein called Jak3, which causes a cascade of inflammation that starts in the i...
Natural Ways to Boost GLP-1 Without the Drugs
10 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone naturally produced in the intestines during meals. It helps regulate blood sugar and weight by increasing...
Comprehensive New Study Presents Strongest Evidence Yet Linking Processed Foods with Chronic Disease
03 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A study published in the British medical journal BMJ pooled data from 14 studies involving nearly 10 million people to look at connections between con...
Gugulipid (Guggul): A Natural Way to Lower Cholesterol
27 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Gugulipid, also known as gum guggul, is an extract of the resin from a West Indian tree that has documented cholesterol lowering properties. List...
Plants Over Meat: New Study Reveals What Our Ancestors Really Ate
20 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In a recent study, researchers found that the diet of some ancient hunter-gatherers primarily ate plant foods, including beans and grains, with only a...
High on HDL: Elevating Good Cholesterol Naturally
13 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
HDL is an acronym for "high-density lipoproteins"--compounds made in the body that are considered the "good guys" in the cholesterol game. They help ...
Citrus Bergamot: a Cardiovascular Super Hero
06 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Bergamot, a citrus fruit hailing from the groves of southern Italy’s Calabria region, has been shown in clinical trials to lower bad cholesterol and...
Study Shows Soybean Oil Consumption Linked to Diabetes and Negative Impact on Brain Health
29 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In 2015 a research team at UC Riverside found that soybean oil consumption induces obesity, diabetes, insulin resistance, and fatty liver in mice. Now...
A Cup of Navy Beans a Day Keeps the Colorectal Cancer Away
22 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A recent study conducted at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center showed that patients with a history of colorectal cancer who added a cup...
How Autophagy Keeps You Healthy
16 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Autophagy is a natural biochemical self-preservation process whereby the body cleans out damaged cells in order to regenerate newer, healthier cells. ...
What is Buckwheat Honey?
08 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Buckwheat honey is a type of honey produced by bees that collect nectar solely from the flowers of the buckwheat plant. This gives the honey a unique ...
New Study Links Artificially Sweetened Sodas with a 20% Increase in Atrial Fibrillation Risk.
31 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), or an irregular heartbeat, is a condition that can lead to stroke, heart failure, and blood clots. A new study has found t...
EWG's 2024 Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 List is Here!
24 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Environmental Working Group's 2024 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™ (aka the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 List) was released on March 20,...
Unlocking the Link Between Diet and Chronic Pain: A Call for Healthier Habits
17 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A recent study shines light on the profound impact of diet on chronic pain. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of the study, and the s...
FDA Announces Qualified Health Claim for Yogurt and Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
10 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Following a decision by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), yogurt manufacturers in the United States will now be allowed to state on their labels...
How the "Fasting Mimicking Diet" Lowers Biological Age
03 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
As its name suggests, the Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD) is a dietary approach that provides the same health benefits typically seen with water-only fas...
Study Shows Wasabi Help Impove Memory
25 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A new study adds wasabi to the list of foods that show significant improvement in both working and episodic memory. Listen in this week as Dee discuss...
Health Benefits of Parsnips
18 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The parsnip is a humble root vegetable that is highly underrated. Listen in this week as Dee discusses their rich nutritional profile, health benefits...
What is the Best Oil for Moisturizing Wood Cutting Boards?
11 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
If you favor using wood cutting boards, wood utensils, and wood butcher blocks, you know they need to be moisturized to keep them from drying out. Lis...
Protein Overload: How Much is Too Much for Your Health?
04 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Americans are fixating on protein while neglecting the crucial role of fiber in their diets. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the optimal protein ...
Taking a Daily Multivitamin/Mineral Supplement Boosts Brain Health and Slows Memory Loss
28 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
While the impact of multivitamins on overall health sparks ongoing debates, a fresh study hints at their potential to put the brakes on memory loss. L...
What is CoEnzyme-Q10?
22 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a powerful antioxidant made within the body. However, there are a number of circumstances that interfere with its productio...
Duckweed Unleashed: Twice the Heart Health Power of the Traditional Mediterranean Diet
14 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology showed that eating a greener version of the Mediterranean diet that includes du...
Did the Tax on Sugar Sweetened Beverages Curb Consumption?
08 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Five U.S. cities implemented a tax on sugar-sweetened beverages between 2017 and 2018, as a key policy to reduce cardiometabolic diseases and other he...
What Helps with Bloating?
31 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
One of the top-trending health-related questions searched on Google in 2023 was "What helps with bloating?" Listen in this week as Dee provides insig...
Rhodiola for Anxiety
17 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Rhodiola is an adaptogenic herb with health benefits documented in medical texts dating back to 77 AD. Listen in this week as Dee discusses how rhodi...
The Benefits of Ashwagandha
11 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has over 4,000 years of traditional use in India for improving many conditions. Listen in this week as Dee dis...
Will the 2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans Finally Take a Stance Against Ultra-Processed Foods?
26 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Three decades ago a team of independent nutrition experts was recruited by the USDA to create the first Food Guide Pyramid published in 1992 to help A...
New Study Confirms Aspartame Raises Insulin Levels
19 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A new study reveals that diet sodas sweetened with the artificial sweetener aspartame (also known as Equal) increase insulin levels the same as regula...
Beta Glucan Squelches Food Cravings
12 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A special type of fiber has been found to be especially effective at suppressing appetite and tamping down cravings. Listen in this week as Dee disc...
Vitamin K-Rich Diet Prevents Diseases of Aging
05 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Promising research shows vitamin K provides defense against age-related conditions like osteoporosis, cancer and heart disease. Listen in this week as...
The Link Between Diet, Gut Microbiome, and Depression
29 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A study looking at gut bacteria levels in over 2,500 people has linked low levels of certain types of gut bacteria with higher incidence of depression...
Is the OMAD Diet a Viable and Safe Approach to Long-Term Health?
22 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The OMAD (one meal a day) diet is making big and bold promises for weight loss and better health, including delaying the aging process. Listen in this...
Thermogenic Super Spices to Rev Up Metabolism
15 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Most everyday kitchen spices have a long history of medicinal use, and many of them are good for increasing metabolism in the body due to their thermo...
The Younger You Start, The More Walnuts Can Protect Your Heart
08 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A new study shows that walnut consumption is especially potent for heart health, and the earlier you start, the better the benefit. Listen in this we...
Can Psyllium Husk Compare to Ozempic for Weight Loss?
01 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Psyllium husk has been dubbed by some social media blogs as a "poor man's" Ozempic. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the similarities and differen...
Hibiscus Aids Weight Loss by Revving Up Metabolism
24 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A polyphenol compound in hibiscus called Hibiscus sabdariffa is shown in studies to aid weight loss by controlling appetite and increasing production ...
The Sweet Benefits of Glycine
18 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In addition to being one of the fundamental amino acids used to building protein in the body, glycine is involved in many different important chemical...
Are You Taking the Right Dose of Fish Oil?
10 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A recent study evaluated over 2,000 fish oil supplements and found that the variable doses suggested on product labels are typcially much lower than t...
Irish Butter Really is a Better Butter!
04 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A new study shows that the majority of dairy farmers in Ireland use a pasture based, grass-fed feeding system that produces milk with significantly hi...
Fatty Liver Disease Gets a New Name
28 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The medical term "fatty liver disease" is getting a new name as terminology adapts to better reflect the symptoms of the disease and becomes more sens...
The Green Tea Effect: How this Common Beverage Regulates Gut Health and Combating Obesity
21 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A recent study investigating the effect of three different concentrations of green tea in the diet showed better gut health and more weight loss in th...
Does Soda with Added Prebiotics Boost Your Gut Health?
13 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Brands of soda like Olipop and Poppi are the latest in a line of food and beverage products called "functional foods" that have added ingredients purp...
Brain-healthy MIND Diet Helps Kids Focus Better in School
06 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The MIND Diet was originally developed to help older adults stave off dementia and keep their minds sharp. Now a new study shows that this brain-healt...
Study Shows Strong Evidence that Omega-3's Improve Lung Health
30 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Omega-3's are well known for reducing risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer, but their role in chronic lung disease has not been well studied unt...
American Medical Association's Shifts its Policy on use of Body Mass Index as Predictor of Disease Risk
23 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The American Medical Association has adopted a new policy on the use of Body Mass Index (BMI) alone for assessment of disease risk, noting significant...
Aspartame is "Possibly Carcinogenic to Humans" according to the World Health Organization
16 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Aspartame, an artificial sweetener used in many diet sodas, sugar-free products, and sold in blue packets under the name "Equal", has now been classif...
Carotene-Rich Diet Prevents Clogged Arteries
07 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Carotenes are a class of plant-compounds found in brightly colored fruits and vegetables. Listen in this week as Dee discusses a new study that links ...
Allulose Has Sweet Benefits for Weight Loss and Blood Sugar Control
30 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Allulose is a relatively "new" sweetener on the market that has been shown in studies to promote weight loss and lower blood sugar in people with type...
Taurine Could be the Elixer For a Longer and Healthier Life
26 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
New research published in the journal Science has found that a deficiency of taurine, an amino acid involved in immune and neurological funtion, is a ...