Plant Proof - Plant Based Nutrition & Inspirational Stories

In Episode #223, Drew Harrisberg and I sit down to discuss how to optimise your exercise. Drew provides a detailed outline of how to develop an exercise program, working around different time constraints. We recap past episodes with Dr Richard Johnson and Professor Kieran Rooney, sharing our thoughts on these conversations. We also cover my recent Bali retreat, HIIT training and VO2 max, resistant starch and cancer, and much more. With new episodes of The Proof weekly and an abundance of new studies to keep up with, taking the time to unpack these is incredibly valuable. In this content-packed episode, we recap previous episodes and apply this knowledge into actionable tips you can use to get the most out of exercise. Specifically, this episode covers: Intro (0:00) Time Spent in Bali (1:47) The Richard Johnson Episode (18:37) Discussing Potential benefits of Dairy (30:23) Exercise Optimisation (35:49) HIIT & Cardiovascular Disease (1:08:38) Developing an exercise program (1:13:16) Resistant Starch &

In Episode #222, I’m joined by Drew Harrisberg and Kieron Rooney, PhD to discuss how the biochemistry of exercise can impact your health. We cover a wide range of topics, including mitochondria efficiency, metabolic flexibility, and fat adaptation. Dr Rooney also offers training advice, and his thoughts on a ketogenic diet. Evidence continuously shows us that the multitude of factors contributing to health and longevity are incredibly complex. Today, Kieran Rooney, PhD sits down with Drew Harrisberg and me to break down the biochemistry behind exercise, exploring both the theory and practical applications of improving your fitness. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) Rodent Studies on Sucrose (5:40) Biochemistry of Exercise (22:28) Creatine Supplementation for Athletes (37:19) Do you need meat for creatine? (42:40) How Our Bodies Produce ATP (44:41) Defining Mitochondria (58:43) Increasing Efficiency (1:03:56) Omega 6s: Essential or Problematic? (1:06:00) Metabolic Flexibility (1:15:20) Make more

In Episode #221, I sit down with Dr Satchin Panda to continue The Proof’s conversation on time restricted eating. We discuss circadian rhythms, circadian disruption, and health impacts. We also cover TRE in the context of circadian biology, blood glucose, and calorie restriction. Dr Panda offers his advice on the optimal TRE lifestyle. Time-restricted eating (TRE) has caused a stir on social media in recent years. Many studies on TRE are misrepresented online, with people drawing absolute conclusions that often don’t consider all the data. Dr Panda joins me in this episode to look further into TRE, with a focus on circadian rhythm. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) Circadian Rhythms (2:20) Why Circadian Disruption is a Problem (9:35) Dr. Panda’s Early Research (15:29) What Causes Sleep Deprivation (21:05) Disease & Circadian Disruption (26:07) Light Exposure (28:59) Time Restricted Eating (35:19) Optimal Eating Window (43:57) Impact on Blood Glucose (57:51) TRE vs Calorie Restriction (1:03:35)

In Episode #220, Dr MeiLan Han joins me to discuss the lungs and respiratory system. Despite being an incredibly important factor of our overall health, the respiratory system is often overlooked. Most people’s knowledge is surface level, and we aren’t educated on the importance of the lungs or how to best support respiratory health. Dr MeiLan Han joins me in this episode to explain what the respiratory system is, how it works, and what we can do to optimise it. In this episode, Dr Han establishes what the respiratory system is and how it works. We discuss the prevalence of lung conditions, Covid-19 and its impact on the respiratory system, and air quality. We also discuss healthy habits for pregnancy, the effects of smoking and vaping on lung health, diet, and how to reduce exposure to toxic compounds. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) Breathing Lessons: The Book (2:09) Meilan’s Story (5:59) Importance of Lung Awareness (11:07) Lung Tests (24:25) Impact of Covid (29:57) How the Lungs Work (33:32)

In Episode #219, I sit down with Layne Norton, PhD to answer one very topical question: does insulin make us fat? Welcome to the first bite-sized episode of The Proof. In these short conversations, I am joined by a guest to tackle a single topic in a brief, digestible time frame. In this episode, Layne Norton, PhD addresses recent online claims by Ben Bikman, PhD. Dr Bikman claims that if we keep insulin low and control seed oils, fat cells can stay smaller and healthier. But is there any truth to this claim, and would that necessarily be a good thing? In this episode, Dr Norton takes a highly scientific approach to the topic at hand. We discuss adipocyte hypertrophy, the difference between and significance of hypertrophy versus hyperplasia, and the consequences of misinformation. We also examine the uses and drawbacks of mechanistic data. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) Dr. Bikman’s Claims (2:24) Hyperplasia and hypertrophy (7:19) Gap of Research (12:17) Why this is problematic (15:56) Motives (2

In Episode #218, I’m joined by entrepreneur Arturo Elizondo to discuss the future of egg production. Ground-breaking changes are happening in our food industry every single day. While animal agriculture continues to grow, there is an increasing field of innovation seeking sustainable, ethical alternatives to the foods most people consume daily. Arturo Elizondo joins me today to pull back the curtain on one such initiative, The EVERY Co., revealing his journey and where this technology will take us. Think real eggs, just made differently. In this episode, we continue The Proof’s investigation into the future of animal-free proteins. Arturo expands on previous episodes, discussing the triumphs and challenges of current technologies in this space, the journey of The EVERY Co., and where the industry is heading. We also discuss food equity and availability, government regulations and funding, environmental considerations, concerns about genetic modification, and much more. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) D

In Episode #217, I sit down with dietician Ginny Messina to address common nutrition myths about the vegan diet. With an abundance of nutrition “information” presented to us any time we use social media, it becomes difficult to identify whether a claim is fact or fiction. Misinformation is a common issue across all patterns of eating — including a plant-based diet — and understanding the full picture is incredibly important to ensure health and longevity. Ginny Messina, MPH, RD joins me to address common nutrition myths about the vegan diet, providing a broader view that will help plant-based eaters make sense of nutrition needs. In this episode, we address 16 myths that could have negative health implications if followed. Ginny Messina speaks to the limitations and strengths of the evidence that we have, provides recommendations for optimal health, and discusses the ethical reasons for making diet choices. We also cover supplementation, concerns about vegan diets, and how to evaluate claims you find online.

In Episode #216, I sit down with Dr David Jenkins to discuss the relationship between cholesterol and health. Cholesterol levels are concerningly high among populations consuming a standard Western diet. On the flip side, plant-based diets are often criticised for their lack of cholesterol. We know that cholesterol is an essential component of the human body — but is it necessary to consume it, and is this a concern for plant-based eaters? Dr David Jenkins answers this question and much more in today’s episode. In this episode, we dig into cholesterol and the health implications of sub-optimal levels. We discuss the Portfolio Diet, weight loss, and the current research on cholesterol. Dr Jenkins also shares his recommendations on how and what to eat for optimal cholesterol levels, as well as how medication compares to a lifestyle approach. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) Researching Cholesterol & Diet (2:35) What this means for you (15:00) Weight Loss Factor (17:23) The Portfolio Diet Explained (

In Episode #215, I’m joined by Dr Richard Johnson to discuss obesity, fructose, and metabolic disease. “Fructose” has become something of a fear word in modern diet culture. It is often positioned as the villain, without the in-depth breakdown of where we are sourcing this fructose and the quantities it is consumed in. Similarly, the relationship between health and obesity is hotly contested. Dr Richard Johnson sits down with me today to clarify the scientific relationship between these factors, getting into what the evidence tells us. In this episode, we take a broader view at the history of obesity before honing in on the biology and mechanisms. We discuss the ideology of obesity, whether you can be healthy at any size, and the degree of risk related to where you store fat. We also cover a variety of animal studies, sources of fructose, and how the modern food environment shapes our body weight. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (0:00) History of Obesity (2:30) Body Fat & Health Span (10:36) Causes & B

In Episode #214, I sit down with Josh Tetrick to discuss reshaping our food system towards plant-based products and slaughter-free meat alternatives. As animal-free proteins grow in popularity, technologies for creating them are too. Josh Tetrick wants to reshape our food system, and joins me today to share his journey with Eat Just. Josh is committed to facilitating innovation in the plant-based sphere and offers valuable insight into emerging technologies in today’s episode. In this episode, we discuss business as a force for change and the future of the animal-free industry. Josh shares some of his story, explaining where he found the drive to act and how he raised more than half a billion dollars. We look deeper into Eat Just’s products, specifically their very successful “Just Egg”. We also discuss the nutritional profile of cultivated meat and other plant-based alternatives; challenges Josh has overcome; and the benefits of alternative products. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) Josh’s Story (2:

In Episode #213, Dr Jenna Macciochi joins me for a deep dive into the human immune system. “Immunity” has become a buzzword in health spheres at the moment. From supplement marketing to recipe promotion, there seem to be countless quick-fix products or ingredients to “boost” and improve the immune system. But is there any validity to these claims? Dr Jenna Macciochi joins me today to look deeper into what actually creates a balanced immune system. In this episode, we cover broader explanations of what the immune system is and what it does before getting into the finer details. Dr Macciochi also provides an abundance of applicable information, explaining the mechanisms behind what impacts the immune system. We discuss the extent of control we have over our own immune system, indications of a disrupted immune system, and the importance of gut health. Dr Macciochi also shares insight into vaccines, inflammation, diet, and supplementation. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) Becoming an Immunologist (5:38) E

In Episode #212, Dr Eric Rawson joins me to examine the muscular and cognitive effects of creatine. Performance supplementation is a flooded field. With supplementation sceptics on one hand and relentless marketing promotion on the other, it can be difficult to know what to believe. Dr Eric Rawson joins me today for an in-depth conversation on creatine, breaking down everything you need to know about this widely studied compound. In this episode, we cover the basics of creatine consumption and push deeper into specific, common questions people may have. You will learn about the muscular performance and brain health benefits of creatine for people of different demographics, including age, gender, and diet. Dr Rawson also outlines dosage guidelines, addresses common concerns people may have, and speaks to the evidence we have about safety. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) Breakthrough Creatine Research (1:53) What Creatine is (11.00) Is Creating Essential? (12:48) Testing Creatine Levels (17:10) Veg

In Episode #211, I sit down with Dr Jared Raynes to discuss precision fermentation and the future of dairy. As our world becomes more populated and animal agriculture continues to unsustainably expand, we need to examine alternatives to the products people know and love. While animal-free dairy may sound like an impossible feat, innovation in the field of precision fermentation is proving otherwise. Dr Jared Raynes joins me today to explain what precision fermentation is, where this technology is now, and where it can take us in the future. By listening to this episode, you’ll gain an understanding of what precision fermentation is from both a scientific and outcome-based perspective. We break down the benefits of animal-free dairy, explain how it is created, and address potential concerns about genetic modification. Dr Raynes also offers insight into where this technology is used already, where it’s heading, and when we can expect to see animal-free dairy products on the shelves. Specifically, we cover:

In Episode #210, Professor Stuart Phillips returns to expand on our conversation about using science to improve training outcomes. One very common criticism of a plant-based diet is that it’s difficult to meet protein requirements due to both quantity and quality of plant-based protein sources. “Evidence” provided for this often centres around amino acid profiles, linking back to the DIAAS and PDCAAS protein scoring systems. Today, Professor Stuart Phillips offers clarity on this topic and much more useful information on what to consume, in what form, and when. In this episode, we cover a whole suite of information that is highly relevant and applicable for those looking to improve their training outcomes. In addition to briefly revisiting the basics of protein consumption, we discuss distribution and timing, protein needs for older people, and protein quality scoring systems. We also dive into supplementation for those looking to improve performance and muscle protein synthesis, including caffeine, beta al

In Episode #209, I sit down with Dr Kristina Harris Jackson to deep dive into the effects of omega-3 consumption on lactation and pregnancy. Dr Kristina Harris Jackson furthers The Proof’s exploration of omega-3s in this episode, offering her expertise in a discussion centred around maternal health. Nutrition during pregnancy can be a sensitive and confusing topic; when parents are trying to do everything they can to ensure optimal health outcomes, the abundance of available information is overwhelming. Today, Dr Harris Jackson provides some much-needed clarity and insight into omega-3s and pregnancy. In this episode, we cover a whole suite of information around omega-3s across early life stages. You will learn about the importance of nutritional biomarkers and exactly how important omega-3s are during pregnancy. We also discuss the potential effect of DHA on gestation length, inflammation during pregnancy, and how genetic variations may affect omega-3 conversion. Finally, Dr Harris Jackson shares supplemen

In Episode #208, I’m joined by expert researcher Dr Bill Harris to discuss the relationship between omega-3 fatty acids and human health. Increasingly, online nutrition conversation is moving away from scientific literature and is more heavily influenced by marketing and controversial claims for personal gain. Whether people are making these statements to grow their online community or capitalise on a financial opportunity, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are yet another topic surrounded by bold claims. In this episode, you’ll learn about the different types of dietary fats and why saturation is important in terms of human health. We cover the connection between cholesterol, fat saturation, and heart disease; the benefits or potential concerns of consuming omega-3s; supplementation guidelines; omega-6s and inflammation; the difference between adequate and optimal intake; and much more. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) What are fats? (5:21) Harris’ research (10:28) Dietary guidelines & saturated fat

In Episode #207, Dr Gil Carvalho explains how to approach nutrition information from an evidence-based viewpoint, breaking down the details of data analysis. In recent years, we’ve seen a huge influx of information being presented as fact without any real scientific foundations. Being able to assess the validity of these claims is critical, and Dr Carvalho offers useful insight into how a layperson can approach them. In today’s episode, we shift the focus away from what to think about the science of nutrition onto how to think about it. You’ll learn how to assess scientific claims with Dr Carvalho’s “Three P’s” framework. We apply this framework to a few examples, exploring cooking oils, red meat, eggs, and cholesterol. We also discuss the nuance of evidence hierarchies, and much more. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) Gil’s Story (4:50) How we Think About Nutrition (10:30) What is Proof (14:50) Observational & Randomized Control Trials (28:40) Evaluating the Impact of Oil (44:07) Red Meat (1:22:

In Episode #206, Drew Harrisberg joins me to debrief The Proof’s first debate and discuss blood tests, sleep, and the interaction between HIIT training and blood glucose. Last week, I released a special episode on YouTube: a debate on seed oils and heart disease between Tucker Goodrich and Dr Matthew Nagra. You can find it here. Regardless of whether you’ve watched the debate, you’ll gain insight from the reflections we share in this episode. Our discussion of this debate covers the interpretation of studies, consistency of arguments, and whether either argument was compelling enough to change our minds. Moving on from the debate, you’ll also learn about how sleep interacts with calorie consumption, blood glucose and HIIT training, and blood tests you may want to request. Drew and I also offer insights into our own diets, and I share some results from a recent blood test. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) Training (3:40) The Seed Oil Debate (12:03) Understanding Healthy ApoB Levels (55:25) The Bioh

In Episode #205, I sit down with Dr Andrew Huberman to discuss the nervous system and how lifestyle choices impact your brain. As a neuroscientist and tenured professor at Stanford University, Dr Huberman has made numerous significant contributions to the field of brain development, brain function, and neural plasticity. In this episode, we break down the basics before moving on to the impact of specific lifestyle decisions and behaviours. We cover what neuroscience is and why it’s important, covering some significant discoveries in the past century. You’ll also learn how caffeine impacts the nervous system, how to improve learning, and the benefits of non-sleep deep rest (NSDR). We discuss tools you can use to wind down from intense alertness, supplements and brain health, and much more. Specifically, we discuss: Intro (0:00) What is Neuroscience (4:07) Milestones in Neuroscience (10:04) Neurons and Performance Enhancement (18:48) What Caffeine does to the Body (29:08) The Ideal Exercise (32:40) Ad

In Episode #204, I’m joined by leading researchers Dr Emily Manoogian and Dr Courtney Peterson. Drs Emily and Courtney both research the way food timing interacts with the body, focusing on time-restricted eating (TRE). In this episode, we approach the topic with a key question: is there any advantage of time-restricted eating other than helping people eat fewer calories to achieve a healthy body weight? You’ll learn the specifics of what TRE is, the purported benefits, what we know, and what we’re yet to discover. We also discuss the work of Drs Emily and Courtney, and comment on the recent study from China that is making waves. Specifically, we cover: Intro (0:00) Debate of Fasting Benefits (2:11) Fasting Defined (6:20) Circadian Rhythm & Meal Timing (17:26) History of TRE Studies (25:32) Calorie Restriction vs TRE (46:29) Debunking Trials that DIDN’T work (58:27) Cancer (1:25:40) Aging (1:31:56) Women’s Health & Lean Muscle (1:35:37) Optimal Eating Windows (1:41:55) Training & Breaking the F