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ZOE Science & Nutrition

ZOEzoe.com
The world’s top scientists explain the latest health, nutrition, and gut health research and translate it into practical advice to improve your health & weight. Join ZOE Science & Nutrition, on a journey of scientific discovery. Hosted by Jonathan Wolf.

Episodes

How to eat 30 plants this week | Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall and Prof. Tim Spector

Thirty plants this week, think you could do it? It might sound a lot, but it’s easier than you think. Fruit, veg, nuts, seeds, even coffee all count as plants. Legendary chef Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall joins us to share tips on eating more plants. Hugh’s new book ‘How to Eat 30 Plants a Week’ explores the wild world of legumes, grains, herbs and beyond. He explains that getting your thirty plants each week can be simple, fun and delicious. Joining Hugh is Tim Spector - professor of genetic epid...

Aug 29, 20241 hr 9 min

Recap: Is snacking really that bad? | Prof Tim Spector and Prof Sarah Berry

You’ve probably heard conflicting advice on how often to eat. I know I have. And have you ever wondered about the evidence behind eating 3 meals a day? Could 2, or 5 meals actually be healthier? Professors Tim Spector and Sarah Berry join me to share some unexpected insights and practical advice to help you base your snacking habits in the latest science. Learn how your body responds to food 👉 zoe.com/podcast for 10% off 🌱 Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily30+ *Naturally high...

Aug 27, 202414 min

Blood sugar hacks to give you more energy | Glucose Goddess Jessie Inchauspé and Prof. Tim Spector

Why do some people feel fine eating lots of carbs when others feel energy slumps? Is blood sugar to blame? In this episode, we learn why blood sugar varies so much between people, and the tools to manage these levels. Tim Spector and Jessie Inchauspé (aka the Glucose Goddess) will discuss the latest science around glucose control, what the cool new device on the block – the CGM – can tell us and why blood sugar levels are only one part of the picture of our health. Jessie is a bestselling author...

Aug 22, 202453 min

Recap: Why nuts make you healthier | Professor Sarah Berry

Today we’re discussing Nuts. If you’ve heard that nuts are bad for you because they’re full of fat, then, you’re in for a surprise. Professor Sarah Berry has led large scale human studies to uncover how nuts affect our health. And she’s here to tell us the healthiest way to incorporate them into your diet. She'll also tell us about a new discovery that’ll help when you’re reading the nutrition information on the back of a nut packet. Learn how your body responds to food 👉 zoe.com/podcast for 10...

Aug 20, 20249 min

Why one in ten children have a food allergy | Dr. Gideon Lack

Allergies are on the rise in both infants and adults. Many are calling it an epidemic. Allergies can limit your diet, cause irritation, and in some cases be life threatening. In today’s episode, we discuss the evidence suggesting that our gut plays a key role in protecting us from food allergies. Professor Gideon Lack tells us how we can reduce the risk of allergies developing in children. Gideon also shares innovative ways to treat allergies and significantly reduce the risk of death. Gideon is...

Aug 15, 20241 hr 13 min

Recap: How to do intermittent fasting properly | Gin Stephens and Professor Tim Spector

Today we discuss intermittent fasting with Professor Tim Spector, and Gin Stephens, New York Times best selling author of Fast. Feast. Repeat. As many of you long term listeners will know, ZOE ran the world’s largest ever study on intermittent fasting. We know a lot of you are interested in the potential benefits. I’m talking about improved blood sugar control, heart health, and mood. But practically, how do you get started with fasting? Learn how your body responds to food 👉 zoe.com/podcast fo...

Aug 13, 202413 min

How to lower cholesterol in 10 days | Prof. Sarah Berry

Forty percent of people in the UK and US have high cholesterol. Knowing how to lower it can be confusing. In today’s episode, we simplify the science of cholesterol, drawing from ZOE’s 2021 PREDICT study, which explored its link to the gut microbiome. Dr. Sarah Berry explains the differences between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol, discusses how cholesterol can impact your health, and shares tips on maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Sarah is a professor in the Department of Nutritional Scienc...

Aug 08, 202459 min

Recap: How dairy impacts your health: according to the science | Prof. Tim Spector & Prof. Sarah Berry

There seem to be good arguments for and against eating dairy. But how do we know what to listen to? Well at Zoe, we consult the latest research to draw our conclusions. In this episode, our two resident professors join us to unpack what the science says about dairy and your health. Learn how your body responds to food 👉 zoe.com/podcast for 10% off 🌱 Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30 *Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the n...

Aug 06, 202415 min

Olive oil: How to unlock health benefits | Prof. Tim Spector & Elizabeth Berger

Olive oil could transform your health. It regulates blood sugar, helps with weight management and prevents long-term disease. That is if it's the right kind of olive oil. Distributor of the world’s finest olive oils, Elizabeth Berger, and Professor Tim Spector discuss its health benefits, debunk myths, and explain how storage and cooking can affect nutritional value. In today's episode, we learn how to get the most from olive oil, why choosing the right olive oil is crucial and the significant a...

Aug 01, 20241 hr 12 min

Recap: What Prof. Tim Spector got wrong about Mushrooms and UPFs

While researching for his bestselling book, Food for Life, Tim dug deep into the new science around UPFs. We used to think they were unhealthy because of their high salt, fat and sugar levels. But there’s much more to the story. Tim helps us navigate our UPF-filled grocery stores to eat healthier, and explains what he got wrong about a food group he'd previously overlooked... the humble mushroom. Learn how your body responds to food with ZOE 👉 start here 📚 Books from our ZOE Scientists: Food F...

Jul 30, 202412 min

Why are young people getting colon cancer? | Dr. Andy Chan

Rates of colorectal cancer have declined in people over 65 but doubled among people under 50 in the last few decades. By 2030 it’s expected to be the leading cancer-related death in this age group. In today’s episode, gastrointestinal cancer and prevention specialist, Dr. Andy Chan, explains how changes in the gut microbiome could be to blame. Dr. Chan discusses the critical role your diet plays in cancer risk, how your gut microbiome can influence the development of colon cancer and the steps y...

Jul 25, 20241 hr 6 min

Recap: Exercise and your blood sugar | Prof. Javier Gonzalez

Let's take control of our blood sugar. We’ll dive into a conversation with Professor of Human Physiology, Javier Gonzalez. He explains which exercises can reduce your blood sugar spikes and dips - which will have a positive impact on your long term health. And don’t worry, you don’t have to become an Olympic Weightlifter to do it. Learn how your body responds to food with ZOE 👉 start here 📚 Books from our ZOE Scientists: Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spector Every Body Should Know This by Dr Fede...

Jul 23, 202415 min

Plant protein and strength: all you need to know | Simon Hill & Dr. Will Bulsiewicz

Did you know you can build muscle just as effectively with plant protein as with animal protein? In this episode, nutritionist Simon Hill, and board-certified gastroenterologist Dr Will Bulsiewicz, explain how our bodies use protein to build muscle and highlight the health benefits of plant proteins, such as reducing the risk of heart disease, type-2 diabetes, and hypertension. In today’s episode, Simon and Will debunk common myths about protein and discuss the broader benefits of plant proteins...

Jul 18, 20241 hr 12 min

Recap: Improve blood vessel health to slow aging | Dr William Li

Today we’re finding out how to improve blood vessel health with New York Times best selling author, Dr. William Li. Dr. Li has some simple steps we can take to not only slow down the deterioration of our blood vessels, but also to reduce any existing blockages that we may, or may not yet know about. Learn how your body responds to food with ZOE 👉 start here 📚 Books from our ZOE Scientists: Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spector Every Body Should Know This by Dr Federica Amati Free resources from Z...

Jul 12, 202412 min

Hidden health risk? The truth about emulsifiers with Dr. Federica Amati

Emulsifiers are common in our diets, enhancing the texture, appearance and shelf life of many foods. But are they safe? In today’s episode, Jonathan and Federica uncover the surprising truth about emulsifiers in our food. We learn the science behind emulsifiers, their impact on health, and the rising concerns over there extensive use in ultra-processed foods. Dr Federica Amati is a King’s College London researcher and a registered nutritionist. She is also a lecturer and Nutrition Topic Lead at ...

Jul 11, 202428 min

Recap: The top foods high in pesticides | Prof. Tim Spector

Today we’re talking about pesticides. More specifically, about the surprising levels of pesticides found in some common foods. Professor Tim Spector is here to tell us how to avoid giving these to our families. Learn how your body responds to food with ZOE 👉 start here 📚 Books from our ZOE Scientists: - Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spector - Every Body Should Know This by Dr Federica Amati Mentioned in the episode: Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us ...

Jul 05, 202411 min

Can NASA research help fight cancer? | Dr Jessica Scott

What do astronauts and cancer patients have in common? Jonathan explores this fascinating connection with Dr. Jessica Scott, learning how six decades of NASA research is being used to help the recovery of cancer survivors. New research challenges the traditional notion that you should rest during cancer treatment. Instead, Jessica’s studies into exercise could hold the key to a long and healthy life post-diagnosis. Dr Jessica Scott started her career at NASA where she spent 7 years designing exe...

Jul 04, 202453 min

Obesity and the new science of weight loss | Dr. Louis J Aronne

Obesity is a physiological condition that can be managed with the right education and treatment. In today's episode, Dr. Louis J. Aronne, a leading expert in obesity research, sheds light on the science behind weight management and obesity treatment. Dr. Aronne dives into groundbreaking weight loss medications. He also explores how lifestyle and eating habits affect long-term health and why medications combined with dietary changes can unlock transformative results. Louis J. Aronne, M.D. is a le...

Jun 27, 20241 hr

Fix your body clock to improve long term health with Prof. Satchin Panda

Our modern lifestyles mean that most of us don’t live our lives in sync with our circadian rhythms, which puts our health and well-being at risk. Eating and sleeping at the right time are important tools to help us align our circadian rhythms and reduce our risk of chronic disease. In this episode, circadian rhythm expert Prof. Satchin Panda will tell us how light and food act as master regulators of our body clock, how aligning our lifestyles with our body clock can improve our health, mood and...

Jun 20, 202453 min

Remembering Michael Mosley: 4 habits that changed his life

After the tragic news of Michael Mosley's passing, we are re-releasing our episode with him, originally released in March 2023: If you had to do just one thing to improve your health, what would it be? Our busy lives mean it can be difficult to keep up healthy habits, and with so much conflicting advice out there it’s tricky to separate fact from fiction. In today’s episode, Jonathan is joined by medical doctor, journalist, and presenter Michael Mosley, who is alongside ZOE regular Tim Spector, ...

Jun 13, 202452 min

Is plant-based meat healthy? What the research shows with Prof. Christopher Gardner

Meat consumption continues to be high in both the US and the UK. Yet many governments advise reducing meat consumption, particularly red meat, due to both environmental and health concerns. In this episode, we delve into the sizzling world of meat alternatives. They promise sustainability, animal welfare, and better health. Buzzwords like "plant-based" and "meat-free" proudly adorn their packaging. But are they actually healthy? Or should we consider them as ultra-processed foods and avoid them?...

Jun 06, 20241 hr 3 min

Menstruation: Science, medicine and mythology

Periods are taboo! Despite the fact that half of the world’s population experience them. This taboo has led to countless myths around the topic. “The internet’s gynecologist” Dr. Jen Gunter is here to usher in a new era where people understand – and can advocate for – what they need as their body changes each cycle. Jonathan is joined by Dr Sarah Berry and Dr Jen Gunter to get a better understanding of our body's behavior during the menstrual cycle. Jen will provide you with her period toolkit a...

May 30, 202457 min

Why dementia could start in your blood vessels with Dr. William Li

55 million people suffer dementia worldwide with numbers expected to double every 20 years. Understanding the link between our heart health and brain function is critical, illuminating the profound impact that heart health has on preventing dementia. Dr. William Li, an expert in cardiovascular and metabolic health. He reveals how caring for our heart is not just about longevity but maintaining sharp, effective brain function as we age. His groundbreaking work has impacted more than seventy disea...

May 23, 20241 hr 16 min

How inflammation could age you with Prof. Philip Calder

Inflammation is a complicated topic. Short-term inflammation plays an essential role in fighting infections and healing injuries. But too much inflammation can be a catalyst for chronic ailments, like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, autoimmune disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and obesity. What we eat can influence our inflammatory responses and contribute to chronic, low-grade inflammation. In today’s episode, Prof. Philip Calder helps us understand the science behind inflammation, how it impact...

May 16, 20241 hr 3 min

Your new menopause toolkit with Dr. Mary Claire Haver & Dr. Sarah Berry

The menopause transition can bring unexpected challenges — the effects can significantly impact daily life and long-term health. Dr. Mary Claire Haver is a board-certified gynaecologist and a menopause specialist. She's helped thousands of women in perimenopause and menopause to realise their health goals. In today’s episode, she joins Jonathan and ZOE's Chief Scientist Dr. Sarah Berry to shed light on what to expect during these life stages. Sarah and Mary Claire describe practical strategies f...

May 09, 20241 hr 10 min

The medicines hiding in your spice rack with Kanchan Koya & Dr. Sarah Berry

In today’s episode we’re uncovering the medicines hiding in your kitchen. Molecular biologist Kanchan Koya joins Jonathan and Sarah to explore the incredible health benefits of spices. From controlling blood sugar to soothing a sore throat, we’ll discover what the latest research says about household favorites including ginger, cinnamon and cloves. Kanchan Koya is a food scientist, founder of the spice-centric food blog Chief Spice Mama and author of the cookbook ‘100 Recipes with Healing Spices...

May 02, 20241 hr 2 min

Foods for every decade of life with Dr. Federica Amati

Did you know that even at age 70, with the right nutrition, you could potentially extend your life by 6 years? In today’s episode, we learn that it's never too late to change your diet for the better. Dr. Federica Amati, ZOE’s Head Nutritionist, dives into the unique nutrition needs at every life stage. From the golden windows of opportunity that can transform your health, to practical food recommendations for adolescence, adulthood and beyond, Dr. Amati gives tips to enhance your wellbeing. Dr....

Apr 25, 20241 hr 13 min

What to eat to avoid osteoporosis

🥑 Make smarter food choices. Become a member at zoe.com - 10% off with code PODCAST Every 12 years, our skeletons undergo a complete transformation. Prof. Tim Spector and Prof. Cyrus Cooper discuss how to avoid Osteoporosis, a condition where bones become fragile, significantly increases the risk of fractures from minor incidents, often without any noticeable symptoms. Worldwide, it affects one in three women and one in five men over fifty, leading to pain, potential disability and loss of inde...

Apr 18, 20241 hr 9 min

The TRUTH about intermittent fasting

What we learned from the world’s biggest intermittent fasting study. Did you know that intermittent fasting can have significant health benefits? By aligning your eating schedule with your body's natural rhythms, it can bolster heart health, enhance insulin sensitivity, and support weight loss. In today’s episode, Jonathan, Prof. Tim Spector, and Gin Stephens dive into the world of intermittent fasting, with a focus on time-restricted eating. Gin shares essential tips for beginners and explains ...

Apr 11, 20241 hr 2 min

The best exercise routine, according to your muscle clocks with Professor Karyn Esser

Our bodies naturally follow a roughly 24-hour cycle, called our circadian rhythm. And every cell has a rhythm. As we get older, we tend to lose muscle, making us more prone to falls and less able to live independently. Though we can't stop aging, staying active helps keep our muscles strong and our bodies healthy for longer. Prof. Karyn Esser is a specialist in how the body's natural rhythms affect muscles. Today, she guides us through the latest research and shows that it's always possible to h...

Apr 04, 20241 hr 5 min