This week on the show, we speak with Dr. César Ojeda, an ethnobiologist specializing in fermentation, biocultural diversity, and microbial ecology. Dr. Ojeda shares his insights on traditional Mexican fermented beverages, particularly focusing on the science and cultural importance of these foods. We discuss the concept of ethnomicrobiology, the role of microbes in traditional agriculture, and how microbial communities impact the fermentation process. From lessons on prickly pear cactus fermented beverages and the significance of various fermentation containers, we cover a delightful array of fun food science topics!

#cactus #fermentation #pricklypear #microbiology

This week on the show, we’re joined by Dr. Rosette Chakkalakal, an Associate Professor at Emory School of Medicine and Director of Preventive Medicine, and Kathy Taylor, Director of Medical Nutrition Therapy at Grady Health System. Dr. Chakkalakal and Taylor share insights into Grady’s innovative Food as Medicine program, which addresses food insecurity and chronic disease management through nutrition-based interventions. We discuss the critical role of fresh produce access, cooking education, and personalized nutrition counseling in improving health outcomes for patients with diabetes and hypertension. Our guests highlight how Grady’s approach is transforming patient care—helping to lower A1C levels, reduce hospital visits, and even put diabetes into remission. They also share valuable lessons for other healthcare institutions interested in implementing similar programs. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on how food can truly be medicine! 🔗 Learn more at gradyhealth.org

#nutrition #podcast #diabetes #primarycare

If you feel like you never have time to cook a healthy meal, this episode is for you! This week on the show, we’re joined by Sharon Palmer, known as the ‘Plant-powered Dietician.’ Sharon shares helpful tips on easy and healthy meal preparation and explores the intersection of nutrition and sustainability. Plants really are the best when it comes to supporting a healthy planet and a healthy you! Sharon also discusses her new book 'The Plant Powered Plan to Beat Diabetes' and shares valuable information on managing and preventing chronic diseases through dietary choices. Learn more about her work at https://sharonpalmer.com/ and https://foodandplanet.org/.

#vegan #vegetarian #cookbook

Have you ever wondered what’s really in your food—beyond just vitamins, minerals, carbs, proteins, and fats—but also the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that impact health? This week on the show, our guest is Dr. Selena Ahmed, Global Director of the Periodic Table of Food Initiative (PTFI) and Dean of Food EDU at the American Heart Association. With her expertise in food systems research and sustainable agriculture, Dr. Ahmed delves into PTFI’s mission to transform our understanding of food composition and quality.

We discuss the importance of biodiversity, nutritional yields, and sustainable farming practices like agroforestry, which support both healthier ecosystems and better human health. Plus, we explore how the fusion of traditional knowledge and cutting-edge science—including the role of AI in food analysis—is uncovering new insights into what we eat. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation about the future of food! Learn more: https://foodperiodictable.org

This podcast is sponsored by The Periodic Table of Food Initiative in association with the American Heart Association. The views and opinions in this podcast are those of the presenters and represent the synthesis of science. For more information on the Periodic Table of Food Initiative, please visit https://foodperiodictable.org/

#food #podcast #nutrition #biodiversity #PTFI

We’ve all seen it—whether it’s a cat rolling in catnip with pure delight or a dog eating grass, only to vomit it up later. Are these just quirky animal behaviors, or could they be something more—perhaps even a form of self-medication using nature’s pharmacy?

This week on the show, we’re joined by Dr. Jaap de Roode, a biology professor at Emory University, to discuss his fascinating new book, 'Doctors by Nature: How Ants, Apes, and Other Animals Heal Themselves.' He shares remarkable insights into how a wide range of creatures—from monarch butterflies to chimpanzees and house sparrows—intentionally use plants and other natural substances to treat infections, repel parasites, and improve their health.

Our conversation delves into the evolutionary and learned behaviors behind animal self-medication, as well as the broader implications for traditional and modern medicine. Dr. de Roode also offers practical advice on how we can better support wildlife and our pets by making more informed choices about their habitats and diets. Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion on the surprising ways animals harness the power of nature to heal!

#nature #medicine #animals

This week on the show, we’re joined by Dr. Lars Bode, a leading expert in human milk research and director of the Human Milk Institute at UC San Diego. Dr. Bode takes us on a fascinating journey into the science of breast milk, breaking down its unique composition, health benefits, and role in shaping infant development. We discuss how maternal diet, environmental exposures, and even medications influence milk production, as well as the critical role of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) in supporting infant immunity and gut health. Dr. Bode also shares groundbreaking research on milk-derived compounds with potential applications in adult health, including cardiovascular disease and arthritis. Don't miss this deep dive into one of nature’s most remarkable superfoods! 🔗 Learn more at https://hmi.ucsd.edu/

#HumanMilk #Breastfeeding #InfantHealth #GutMicrobiome #MaternalHealth #NutritionScience #MilkResearch #FoodiePharmacology

This week on the show, we’re joined by Dr. Matt Bernstein, a psychiatrist specializing in metabolic medicine, to discuss the use of ketogenic diets in improving mental and brain health. Dr. Bernstein shares his personal journey and the transformative results he has seen in his patients, and delves into the science behind ketosis, mitochondrial function, and the role of diet in managing serious mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more. The episode provides a comprehensive overview of how dietary changes can play a pivotal role in brain health and overall wellness. Learn more about this approach to health at www.accordmh.com.

#mentalhealth #ketogenicdiet #ketosis #psychiatry #metabolism #brainhealth

Our guest this week is Hamilton Pevec, ethnomycologist, entrepreneur, and filmmaker who has dedicated his career to advancing medicinal mushroom efficacy and mycological science. Hamilton discusses his work in advancing medicinal mushroom science and shares insights into the Telluride Mushroom Festival, fungal forays, and the incredible health benefits of various mushrooms. Discover how functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane can support your health, the process behind extracting their medicinal properties, and practical tips for responsible mushroom foraging. Interested in trying his mushroom extracts? Our podcast listeners get a special discount at https://hamiltonsmushrooms.com/FOODIEPHARMA or use coupon code FOODIE10.

#mushroom #chaga #resihi #lionsmane #cordyceps #foodie #podcast