Plant Proof - Plant Based Nutrition & Inspirational Stories

Episode #303. Two years ago, Axel Schurawlow was finishing his fifth round of chemotherapy. Today, he sits down with me to share the lessons he’s learned from staring death in the face. From reckoning with the delicate nature of our existence to making the most of the time we have left, Axel has a lot to teach about reframing your mindset to live a full life. You’ll learn about what it’s like to hear that you have five days left to live, and how Axel found the strength to fight. Axel explains how your life will change when you lean on the people you love, set goals, and step out of the victim mentality. Regardless of whether you’ve lived a fulfilling life or are just getting started, Axel’s perspective on life might just change yours. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Understanding Cancer Diagnosis: Immediate Reactions (01:33) How to Stay Motivated During Recovery (06:52) The Importance of Therapy and Support from Loved Ones (11:28) How a Life-Threatening Diagnosis Can Teach You About Fear and Pur

Episode #302. Learn everything you need to know about fasting from some of the world’s leading authorities. From addressing common myths to offering specific guidance on how to make time-restricted eating work for you, this episode is a masterclass on using fasting as a powerful tool for enhancing health and longevity. This episode features highlights from past episodes with Dr Courtney Peterson, Dr Emily Manoogian, Dr Satchin Panda, and Dr Valter Longo to give you a comprehensive understanding of fasting. We cover everything from the essentials of fasting to its synchronisation with circadian rhythm, the metabolic advantages it offers, and how to implement it for maximum benefit. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction to Time-Restricted Eating and Fasting Concepts (01:39) How Circadian Rhythms Influence Meal Timing (05:46) Exploring the Metabolic Advantages of Time-Restricted Eating (13:52)\ Comparing Late vs Early Time-Restricted Eating Effects (21:17) Comparing Calorie Restriction vs Time-Restricted

Episode #301. Have you started preparing your body for your older years? Or are you already in your older years, wondering how you can best protect yourself from falls and maintain strength and function? Join me as I sit down with Associate Professor Justin Keogh to learn about what sarcopenia is and how you can prevent it. You’ll learn who is at risk for sarcopenia, when to take action to prevent it, and how to move forward if you are facing it already. Dr Keogh identifies the two most important factors for staying strong and mobile, the gold-standard training protocol you should aim for, and other ways you can get the most bang for your buck with exercise. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Understanding Sarcopenia: An Overview and Early Signs (01:29) Key Risk Factors and Predictors of Longevity in Sarcopenia (13:15) Muscle Function in Aging: From Centenarians to Muscle Mass Loss (19:18) The Role of Physical Activity in Managing Sarcopenia: Exercise Myths and Facts (25:03) Sarcopenia Across the

Episode #300. How does body image fit into our picture of overall health? When does negative self-image become body dysmorphic disorder? And does veganism align with a positive relationship with food? Discover the answers to these questions and many more in this conversation with Associate Professor Gemma Sharp. You’ll learn about body dysmorphic disorder (also called body dysmorphia), who falls into this category, and who is at risk for it. We discuss the impact of social media on body image, the prevalence and treatment of eating disorders, and harmful trends in the media. You’ll also discover the facts about body image in vegans, cosmetic interventions, and how AI might be the answer to overwhelmed mental health services. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction (00:00) Exploring Interest in Body Dysmorphic Disorder with Gemma Sharp (01:35) Understanding Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Definition, Prevalence, Onset, and Causes (04:20) The Influence of Social Media on Body Image (09:01) The Role of Social Med

Episode #299. Could psychedelics be the answer to the mental health crisis? Join me as I sit down with psychologist and academic, Dr Stephen Bright, to examine the prevalence of drug usage, what this means in the context of mental health, and how psilocybin and MDMA might be the future of mental health treatment. You’ll learn about the most common drugs in Australia, including cannabis, cocaine, MDMA, and psychedelics. We discuss how these drugs are portrayed in the media, why workplace drug screening may be harmful, and current and upcoming research in the field of psychedelics as a medical treatment option. Dr Bright also shares his views on how decriminalisation and legalisation can help protect vulnerable people. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction to the Podcast (0:00:00) Stephen Bright: Journey into Psychedelic Research (0:01:24) Trends in Drug Use Across Australia and Western Nations (0:06:52) Detecting Cocaine and Cannabis: Health Impacts (0:15:56) Legal Status of Synthetic Cannabis (0:18:35)

Episode #298. Ever wondered why you just can’t stop eating certain foods? Psychologist Tera Fazzino, PhD has the answer. Discover the science of hyper-palatable foods, how they’re making their way into your kitchen, and where they overlap with the tobacco industry in this insight-packed conversation. You’ll leave this episode with a better understanding of why hyper-palatable foods are so prevalent, what to look out for, and how you can better navigate the grocery store. Dr Fazzino also breaks down the policy-level change she would want to see to create a healthier food landscape for everyone. We cover: Introduction to Hyperpalatable Foods and Brain Reward Systems (00:00) Exploring Brain Reward Mechanisms Triggered by Hyperpalatable Foods (02:45) The Influence of Hyperpalatable Foods on Brain Reward Functions (12:58) Food Addiction Explored: A Psychological or Physical Issue? (17:01) Identifying Susceptibility Factors in Food Addiction (20:59) The Impact of Mental Health on Consuming Hyperpalatable Foo

Episode #297. Think hypnosis is for stage shows and witches? Think again. Learn from Stanford Professor David Spiegel about how this revolutionary treatment approach can help break bad habits, manage pain, and improve a range of conditions from insomnia to IBS. You’ll learn what clinical hypnosis is, how it works, and how it differs from meditation. Dr Spiegel also addresses some common fears and misconceptions about this practice, explaining the research and how it fits in with psychotherapy and clinical guidelines. Tune in to discover whether hypnosis might be a good approach for you and how to get started. Specifically, we discuss: Intro to Hypnosis with Stanford's David Spiegel (00:00) Exploring Hypnosis with Stanford Professor David Spiegel (01:53) The Science of Hypnosis Demystified (09:12) Examples of Hypnosis in Smoking Cessation (13:17) Clinical Hypnosis: Control and Perspective Shift (18:10) Pain Management Through Hypnosis (21:46) Hypnosis in Treating PTSD and IBS (30:33) Role of Hypnosis

Episode #296. Looking to lose weight and gain muscle with science-backed insights? Tune in to this conversation with nutrition researcher Alan Aragon to unpack the nuances of achieving optimal body composition. You'll gain a deeper understanding of how to effectively use nutrition – balancing calories, protein, fats, carbohydrates, and even alcohol – to enhance your physique. Discover the crucial role of resistance training, the importance of supplementation, and the myths around fasting and keto diets in muscle building and weight loss. Alan's expertise will empower you with practical, science-backed strategies for sustainable body composition changes, whether you're looking to lose weight, build muscle, or both. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction to Body Composition and Fitness Science (00:00) How Alan Aragon's Passion for Fitness Shapes His Evidence-Based Approach (3:34) Debunking the Anabolic Window: Fact or Fiction? (7:32) Impact of Meal Timing on Body Composition: A Scientific Analysis (12:28)

Episode #295. Set yourself up for success in 2024 with the next instalment of The Proof’s 2023 highlights. Recap key points for physical and mental health success, from aging and exercise to climate change and psychology. This episode offers a comprehensive rundown from some of the best scientists and experts in the game. You’ll hear from Dr Matt Kaeberlein, Dr Andrew Steele, Dr Charles Brenner, Dr Inigo San Millan, Drew Harrisberg, Dr Susanna Soeberg, Dr Stacy Sims, Chris MacAskill, George Monbiot, Jillian Turecki and Dr Judson Brewer. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Understanding Aging: Definitions and Key Hallmarks (01:21) Introduction to Senolytics: What You Need to Know (15:18) The Science of Cellular Aging: Causes and Effects (29:14) Decoding Energy Zones: Insights and Implications (41:36) Effective Workout Strategies: Using Target Heart Rate (53:56) Tailored Training: Menstrual Cycle Considerations for 30-Year-Old Women (1:09:53) Beginner's Guide to Cold Water Immersion: Techniques and

Episode #294. Hit the ground running in 2024 by pressing play on this must-listen episode. Hear the most valuable insights from 19 guests of The Proof, all packed into one episode that brings you the best of each one. 2023 was absolutely loaded with expert advice from some of the best researchers and practitioners in the world, and this episode combines many of them to bring you a powerful tool to have in your arsenal. This episode will take you on a curated journey through 2023’s most important moments, including the must-knows about nutrition, fats, cardiovascular health, metabolic health, cancer and nutrition, and gut health. You’ll hear from: Dr Alan Flanagan, Dr Ayesha Sherzai, Dr Christopher Gardner, Dr Dena Sherzai, Dr Gil Carvalho, Dr Inigo San Millan, Dr Joel Fuhrman, Dr Krystle Zuniga, Dr Matthew Nagra, Dr Mohammed Alo, Dr Neil Iyengar, Dr Philip Calder, Dr Roy Taylor, Dr Stephan Guyenet, Dr Suzanne Devkota, Dr Thomas Dayspring, Dr Urvi Shah, Dr Walter Willet, and Dr Will Bulsiewicz. We discuss: I

Episode #293. What can health-conscious people learn from the Seventh-day Adventist Church? Join me as I sit down with Distinguished Professor Gary Fraser, a cardiologist and leading nutrition scientist, to discover the science on why Seventh-day Adventists have better health outcomes. You’ll learn key highlights from Professor Fraser’s 40+ year research and practice career, including BMI and mortality in the Adventist population, the risks and benefits of dairy consumption, omega 3s, and a variety of other health indicators. We also evaluate the key differences between omnivore, pescatarian, vegetarian, and vegan diets, and examine the conspiracy theories that are often projected onto this population. We discuss: Intro (00:00) Discovering Gary Frazier's Scientific Career (02:04) What Influences a Scientist's Change of Mind? (08:17) How to Avoid Bias in Nutritional Data Analysis (15:07) Exploring the Seventh-Day Adventist Perspective on Nutrition and Lifestyle (20:46) Investigating Longevity in Vegetar

Episode #292. Break through the complexity of women’s health in this masterclass featuring Dr Susan Davis AO, Dr Stacy Sims, and Dr Jen Gunter. Centred around menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), this episode cuts through the noise to bring you what you really need to know about women’s health. Drawing from the best of four highly acclaimed episodes, we offer a comprehensive exploration of menopause's multifaceted impact on health. Discover practical strategies, informed by top experts, to guide you through this transformative life stage with confidence. We discuss: Intro (00:00) What is Menopause? An Essential Definition (02:17) Impact of Hysterectomy on Menopause (04:25) Birth Control Pills & Their Impact on Menopause (05:48) In-Depth Analysis: The Perimenopause Phase (06:11) Understand Menopause Symptoms (07:11) Menopause Uncovered: What's Happening to Women? (12:15) Taking Control: Proactive Menopause Management (28:24) Effective Menopause Management: Expert Guidelines (32:47) Explo

Episode #291. What if there was a safe supplement that could improve recovery and performance, keep bones strong while aging, and offer brain benefits? Enter creatine. Join me as I sit down with Dr Darren Candow, PhD, CSEP-CEP, to learn about what creatine can – and can’t – offer you. Learn about how and why creatine is such a game changer, including potential benefits for recovery, performance, bone health, aging, and the brain. Dr Candow explains why some people respond better to supplementation, which type of creatine you should invest in, and exactly how much you should take for your goals. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Darren Candow on Creatine: Expert Background Insights (01:23) Is Creatine Essential? Creatine Benefits and Supplementation (03:38) Aging and Creatine Supplementation: What You Need to Know (14:13) Creatine for Older Adults: Enhancing Health and Fitness (16:48) Creatine's Impact on Muscle, Strength, and Training Volume (22:11) What is the Optimal Dosage of Creatine for Max

Episode #290. Understand the essentials of protein with this masterclass, featuring insights from experts including Don Layman, Christopher Gardner, Stuart Phillips, Valter Longo, Mark Messina, and Fritz Horstmann. Discover the answers to all the big protein questions: are you getting enough protein? How does protein actually impact muscle and longevity? Are there differences between plant-based and animal protein? This episode is packed with expert insights to guide you towards a more informed and effective approach to protein consumption. We cover: Intro (00:00) Longevity vs Vitality: Understanding Our Focus (01:57) What Exactly is Muscle Protein Synthesis? (07:01) The Impact of Different Proteins on Muscle Synthesis (11:51) Recommended Protein Intake for Adults Explained (13:45) Comparing Protein Needs: Women vs Men (14:45) The Importance of Protein Distribution in Diet (16:04) What is the Maximum Protein Threshold? (19:33) Evaluating the RDA: Is It Adequate for Protein Needs? (23:16) Stuart Phi

Episode #289. Navigate the vital connections between diet, exercise, and long-term well-being with Drew Harrisberg, an exercise physiologist transforming the narrative around diabetes. Together, we dissect a collection of studies revealing the surprising truths about plant-based nutrition, exercise frequency, and metabolic health. This episode is a journey through the science that will not only challenge your assumptions but also equip you with the knowledge to revolutionise your health strategy. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction (00:00) Weekend Warrior Workout (03:02) Insights from Our Wellness Retreat on Bali (10:56) Managing Bone Density Post-Menopause (18:46) Plant-Based Lifestyle: Impact on Aerobic Performance and Strength (27:21) Roy Taylor's Insights: Understanding the True Causes of Diabetes. Episode Recap (35:31) Plant-Based Diet: Its Effects on Aerobic Performance and Strength (57:00) Essential Supplements for Plant-Based Athletes: A Comprehensive Guide (1:07:18) Mastering Plant-Based

Episode #288. Discover the truth about the canola oil debate with Dr Gil Carvalho. A respected physician and research scientist, Dr Carvalho unpacks the complexities of canola oil's role in our health. With no ties to industry, his unbiased perspective sheds light on how canola oil affects our bodies, its comparison to other oils, and the science behind the headlines. Tune in for a candid conversation that promises to enhance your understanding help you make informed dietary decisions. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction (00:00) What Inspired the Canola Oil Video (01:58) Defining Canola Oil: Origins and Composition (06:35) The Most Common Claims About Canola Oil (12:13) Research Methodology in Canola Oil Investigation (17:45) The Significance of Human Data in Canola Oil Research (22:48) Understanding Meta-analysis Studies and Epidemiological Approaches (26:37) Assessing the Adequacy of Canola Oil Research (42:07) Canola Oil's Impact on Blood Lipids and Cardiovascular Health (46:20) Canola Oil vs

Episode #287. Learn about type 2 diabetes from the scientist who has fundamentally changed our understanding of the disease: Professor Roy Taylor. From the twin cycle hypothesis to personal fat threshold, this conversation is an absolute masterclass in what causes type 2 diabetes and the path towards remission for those managing it. We discuss: Introduction to the Twin Cycle Hypothesis & Onset of Diabetes (00:00) Delving into the Twin Cycle Hypothesis: Diabetes Aetiology Explained (02:25) Risks Associated with High Blood Glucose Levels (14:08) Key Factors Causing Insulin Resistance in Muscles (20:53) Understanding the Personal Fat Threshold in Diabetes Onset (26:14) Assessing the Risk Factors for Developing Type 2 Diabetes (35:07) Preventative Measures Against Type 2 Diabetes (41:12) Are Conltinuous Glucose Monitors Beneficial for Non-Diabetics? (46:54) Investigating the Determinants of Body Fat Distribution (50:15) Summary of the DiRECT Trial: Examining the Twin Cycle Hypothesis with Roy Taylor (5

Episode #286. Legumes are trying to kill you. At least, that’s what Dr Steven Gundry would have you believe. Over the decades, various health fads have targeted one nutrient or compound after another: carbs, fat, gluten, and now, lectins. In this episode, I sit down with Dr Alan Flanagan, PhD, and Dr Matthew Nagra, ND, to dissect the bold assertions made in Dr Steven Gundry’s book, The Plant Paradox. Specifically, we discuss: Kickstart Guide: Understanding Lectins for Better Health (00:00) What Are Lectins? A Comprehensive Explanation for Health Enthusiasts (04:00) Demystifying Lectins: Common Myths vs. Facts (08:12) Dr. Gundry's Plant Lectin Claims: A Critical Examination (09:23) Transformative Effects? Real Stories Post Dr. Gundry's Diet (14:00) Evaluating Dr. Gundry's Lectin Claims: A Closer Look (16:51) Busting Dr. Gundry's First Myth: Nutrition Misconceptions Uncovered (17:50) Fact-Check: Do Lectins Trigger Leaky Gut Syndrome? (28:52) Cooking vs. Lectins: Does Heat Really Neutralize Them? (37:5

Episode #285. Explore anxiety's nuances, why destructive habits form, and the transformative potential of mindfulness in this conversation with Dr Jud Brewer. Willpower isn't always the key – learn why with Dr Jud in this eye-opening episode. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (00:00) Judson Brewer's Personal Journey: From Novice to Mindfulness Expert (02:27) Defining Mindfulness: How It Relates to and Enhances Meditation Practices (09:51) The Impact of Mindfulness on Brain Function and Habit Transformation (14:45) The Challenge of Awareness in Today's Distracted World (20:29) Unravelling Anxiety: Insights into Reward-Based Learning (23:28) Distinguishing Anxiety from Depression: A Mindful Approach (33:03) Exploring the Human Brain: The Old Versus the New (41:12) How Can We Change Habits? (45:31) How Can You Cultivate Awareness? (56:51) Judson Brewer's Strategy for Managing Anxiety (1:05:17) Effective Techniques for Breaking Unhealthy Habits (1:06:09) Willpower's Role in Overcoming Negative Behavio

Episode #284. Is grass-fed beef truly the eco-friendly choice? Join me as I sit down with George Monbiot, acclaimed environmental activist and author, to challenge popular beliefs about regenerative agriculture. Discover the debate on carbon offsetting, the global impact of cattle ranching, and uncover why George believes that our current understanding might just be the world's most significant greenwash. Specifically, we discuss: Introduction (00:00) Who is Allan Savory? Exploring the "Is Livestock Grazing Vital for Climate Change Mitigation?" Debate (01:22) The Environmental Impact of Beef Consumption: Allan Savory's Claims and Evidence (05:39) The Flaws in Allan Savory's Supporting Studies (13:26) Soil Carbon Saturation and Greenhouse Gas Emissions (18:05) The Distinction Between Carbon Storage and Carbon Sequestration (21:04) Misunderstandings Surrounding Carbon Credit Schemes (26:17) Identifying Genuine Carbon Offset Programmes (33:04) Overlooking Carbon Opportunity Costs: Common Misconceptions