Episodes
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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 leading authority on obesity and its treatment. He’s a former president of The Obesity Society, which publishes the peer-reviewed scientific journal Obesity, of which Dr. Aronne is an associate editor. He has also authored more than 60 papers and book chapters on the topic.
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Timecodes
00:00 Introduction
01:01 Quickfire questions
03:51 What is obesity?
05:06 What’s the difference between overweight and obesity?
07:38 Why has there been such a quick rise in obesity?
10:55 Why it’s not just a lack of willpower
13:50 The complexity of weight regulation
15:54 What is Leptin and why is it so important for weight control?
19:51 The brain’s role in weight regulation
20:36 Curing obesity in animal studies
22:29 Why hunter-gatherers did not gain weight
23:58 Natural experiments in weight gain and loss
26:01 How medications can cause weight gain
28:42 The impact of calorie restriction diets
30:13 Reducing diabetes risk through weight loss
34:10 Research into medications as a tool for weight loss
38:36 How well do weight loss drugs work?
41:38 The future of weight loss drugs
43:51 Will you regain the weight if you stop taking weight loss drugs?
48:08 Can obesity be avoided without the use of drugs?
49:42 Concerns about weight loss drugs
Books by our ZOE Scientists:
Every Body Should Know This by Dr Federica Amati
Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spector
Fibre Fuelled by Dr Will Bulsiewicz
Mentioned in today's episode:
Persistent metabolic adaptation 6 years after "The Biggest Loser" competition in Obesity
The Finnish diabetes prevention study (DPS) in Diabetes Care
The National Diabetes Prevention Program of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here.
Episode transcripts are available here. -
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 energy levels and how to do this in practice.
Satchin is a world-leading expert in the field of circadian rhythm research. He’s associate professor at the prestigious SALK institute, he’s recipient of the Dana Foundation Award in brain and immune system imaging and he’s also the author of two best-selling books, The Circadian Code and The Circadian Diabetes Code.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction
01:00 Quickfire questions
03:02 What are circadian rhythms?
03:48 How do we know about circadian rhythms?
04:44 Are all body parts on a 24 hour clock?
06:40 How the body enters sleep mode
09:25 What happens during sleep?
12:08 Why you’re not sleeping enough
13:30 The surprising impact of daylight savings time
17:00 Circadian rhythms aren’t just about light
19:55 The dangers of shift work
21:20 Should you go to bed at sunset?
25:40 Why should stop snacking at night
26:10 Satchin’s famous mice study
33:00 The best eating window for health
37:27 Does intermittent fasting promote better food choices?
40:40 Should you drink black coffee when you wake up?
Satchin’s books:
The Circadian Code
The Circadian Diabetes Code
Books by our ZOE Scientists:
Every Body Should Know This by Dr Federica Amati
Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spector
Fibre Fuelled by Dr Will Bulsiewicz
Studies referenced in today’s episode:
Effects of 3 months of 10-h per-day time-restricted eating and 3 months of follow-up on bodyweight and cardiometabolic health in Danish individuals at high risk of type 2 diabetes: the RESET single-centre, parallel, superiority, open-label, randomised controlled trial, published in Lancet Healthy Longevity
Neuronal reprogramming of mouse and human fibroblasts using transcription factors involved in suprachiasmatic nucleus development, published iScience
Learning from circadian rhythm to transform cancer prevention, prognosis, and survivorship care, published in Trends Cancer
The Untapped Potential of Circadian Timing as a Variable for Discoveries and Reproducibility, published in Cell Mol Gastroenterol Hepato
Follow ZOE on Instagram
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here.
Episode transcripts are available here. -
Missing episodes?
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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, to discuss Michael’s four key habits to improve our health.
Michael’s latest book ‘Just One Thing’ explores these habits and has seen him speak to singing scientists and eccentric iceman to healthy habit experts and evangelists. And of course, being Michael, he tried every habit out himself. We talk about which methods are the most effective, which he has incorporated into his life, and how he makes his new habits stick.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
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If you want to uncover the right foods for your body, head to zoe.com/podcast and get 10% off your membership.
Follow ZOE on Instagram
Timecodes:
00:00 Tim Spector's tribute to Michael
01:01 Introduction
01:55 Quick Fire Questions
05:15 Are cold showers good for you?
06:48 How long do you need to be immersed in cold water for the benefits to work?
8:20 Can cold showers improve mental wellbeing?
11:30 Potential dangers of cold water swimming
12:45 Do cultural differences present different outcomes across the world?
13:58 Can these small stressors help us?
14:27 What is the theory behind this working?
16:15 Will this work for everyone or is this very personalized?
18:30 What effects does breathing have on your health?
19:55 How breathing exercises affect our brain
22:27 How do you keep up the breathing exercises?
23:27 ZOE app breathing exercise
25:40 Is there a difference between breathing through your nose and your mouth?
27:20 How important are plants and nature for our health?
30:25 Can exposure to nature improve things like mental health and even gut health?
32:00 Can herbs also help improve our health?
32:47 What are the benefits of exercise?
33:30 What are endo-cannibinoids?
34:41 Are preferences for exercise genetic?
36:12 Is it endorphins that make us feel good after / during exercise?
37:31 How exercise affects us is extremely personalized
39:42 How do we encourage people who don't enjoy exercise to do it?
41:13 Tips to improve your exercise routines
44:08 Are there benefits to walking downhill?
46:42 Summary
Michael Mosley’s book 'Just One Thing' is available to buy here
Episode transcripts are available here -
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?
Christopher Gardner is a Professor of Medicine at Stanford University and the Director of the Stanford Prevention Research Centre, and a world-leading expert in how the food that we eat impacts our health.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
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Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction
01:25 Quickfire questions
03:50 What is a meat alternative?
05:22 What's driving the trend for more alternatives?
07:47 Should you eat less red meat?
08:38 What is in meat alternatives?
10:22 Traditional meats vs meat alternatives
13:41 Are meat alternatives ultra-processed?
14:47 Latest scientific studies
23:56 What were the findings?
29:48 Is the quality of the protein as good as real meat?
34:00 Are meat alternatives healthy?
38:53 Are whole food based meat alternatives healthier?
40:05 What are the practical tips around meat alternatives?
43:21 How do ultra-processed foods come into this?
45:23 What are other ways people can transition away from red meat?
50:33 What are the differences between bad and good quality meat?
๐ Books from our ZOE Scientists:
Every Body Should Know This by Dr Federica Amati
Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spector
Fibre Fuelled by Dr Will Bulsiewicz
Studies referenced in today’s episode:
Study With Appetizing Plantfood—Meat Eating Alternative Trial (SWAP-MEAT), published in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.
SWAP-MEAT Athlete (study with appetizing plant-food, meat eating alternatives trial) a randomized crossover trial, published in Nutrition Journal.
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here.
Episode transcripts are available here. -
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 and offer solutions to the most common problems of modern-day period health.
Dr. Jen Gunter is a gynecologist and pain medicine physician at the Permanente Medical Group in northern California. Her books ‘The Vagina Bible’ and ‘The Menopause Manifesto’ were both New York Times bestsellers. Her 2024 book ‘Blood’ tackles the science, medicine and mythology of menstruation.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
Learn how your body responds to food ๐ zoe.com/podcast for 10% off
Follow ZOE on Instagram.
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction
01:26 Quickfire questions
02:31 Shame culture around menstruation
04:20 The evolution and purpose of the menstrual cycle
06:30 Menstrual cycle mechanics
11:08 Understanding heavy periods and iron deficiency
14:01 Addressing period pain and discomfort
21:39 Diet, appetite, and periods: what's the connection?
26:09 Understanding PMS and PMDD
27:55 PMS causes and symptoms
30:52 Treatment options for PMS and PMDD
31:51 Demystifying polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
35:42 The role of diet and obesity in PCOS
37:32 Advice for managing PMS
40:19 Menstrual cramps and pain management
47:08 Iron supplementation strategies
๐ Dr. Jen Gunter’s books:
The Menopause Manifesto
Blood: The Science, Medicine, and Mythology of Menstruation
๐ Books from our ZOE Scientists:
Every Body Should Know This by Dr Federica Amati
Recipes for a Better Menopause by Dr Federica Amati
Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spector
Studies related to today’s episode:
Prevalence of Iron Deficiency and Iron-Deficiency Anemia in US Females Aged 12-21 Years, 2003-2020, from the Journal of the American Medical Association
The Role of Estrogen in Insulin Resistance: A Review of Clinical and Preclinical Data, from The American Journal of Pathology
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here
Episode transcripts are available here. -
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 diseases including diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Dr. Li is also a New York Times best-selling author.
In today’s episode, Dr. Li explains how simple lifestyle choices in diet, exercise and sleep can drastically shape our brain's health and stave off dementia.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
If you want to uncover the right foods for your body, ๐ zoe.com/podcast, for 10% off your membership.
Follow ZOE on Instagram
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction
01:23 Quickfire questions
03:30 Understanding dementia and Alzheimer's disease
04:50 Dementia versus ageing
06:35 The role of blood vessels in brain health
07:55 How circulation affects brain function
09:23 What causes blood clots and strokes?
11:06 The importance of maintaining healthy blood vessels
12:15 The impact of lifestyle choices on brain health
15:01 What happens in our brains when we sleep?
19:35 What is the glymphatic system?
22:40 Vascular dementia may be the most common form of dementia
24:35 The role of glucose in brain function
27:10 What causes dementia and why does it happen when we get older?
29:00 Preventing dementia with lifestyle changes
31:10 What are healthy blood vessels like?
37:50 The surprising role of EPCs in brain repair
41:30 Can you slow down or reverse dementia?
52:08 The connection between gut health and brain health
51:40 The importance of exercise for brain health
56:30 How to avoid dementia
01:01:16 The link between mental health and cardiovascular disease
๐ Dr. William Li’s books:
Eat to Beat Disease
Eat to Beat Your Diet
๐ Books from our ZOE Scientists:
Every Body Should Know This by Dr Federica Amati
Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spector
Relevant studies:
A human brain vascular atlas reveals diverse mediators of Alzheimer’s risk, published in Nature
Heart-brain connections: Phenotypic and genetic insights from magnetic resonance images, published in Science
Cocoa flavanol consumption improves cognitive function, blood pressure control, and metabolic profile in elderly subjects: the Cocoa, Cognition, and Aging (CoCoA) Study—a randomized controlled trial, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here
Episode transcripts are available here. -
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 impacts our health and what food has to do with it.
Philip is head of the School of Human Development and Health, as well as a Professor of Nutritional Immunology, in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Southampton. He’s also an internationally recognised researcher on the metabolism and functionality of fatty acids. His work focuses on the roles of omega-3 fatty acids and the influence of diet and nutrients on immune and inflammatory responses.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
Learn how your body responds to food ๐ zoe.com/podcast for 10% off
Follow ZOE on Instagram.
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction
01:20 Quickfire questions
02:55 The role of inflammation in immunity
05:30 Chronic inflammation and disease
08:30 How to measure inflammation
09:53 Low-grade inflammation and disease risk
12:30 What causes blood vessel inflammation?
15:23 What creates the narrowing of blood vessels?
17:20 How inflammation can cause blood clots, heart attacks and strokes
19:15 Inflammation and aging
21:40 Inflammation and lifestyle factors
25:07 Obesity and inflammation
28:45 Muscle loss and inflammation (sarcopenia)
30:52 The impact of meals, sugar and fats on inflammation
33:35 How diet could reduce inflammation
34:42 Why we all respond to food differently
38:42 Dietary choices to manage inflammation
40:00 What are omega-3s?
41:17 Anti-inflammatory foods
43:40 Health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids
45:55 Challenges with farmed salmon
๐ Books from our ZOE Scientists:
Every Body Should Know This by Dr Federica Amati
Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spector
Mentioned in today's episode:
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and inflammatory processes: Nutrition or pharmacology? in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology
Omega-6 fatty acids and inflammation in PLEFA
Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes in Nutrients
Another relevant study:
Health relevance of the modification of low-grade inflammation in ageing and the role of nutrition in Ageing Research Reviews
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here
Episode transcripts are available here. -
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 for managing symptoms, critical conversations to have with healthcare providers, and how to advocate for yourself effectively in medical settings.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
Learn how your body responds to food ๐ zoe.com/podcast for 10% off
Follow ZOE on Instagram.
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction
01:33 Quickfire questions
05:53 There is a lack of menopause training in medical school
07:02 Most women are going into menopause blind
07:43 Why menopause symptoms vary
09:30 The hormonal ‘zone of chaos’
11:45 ZOE PREDICT data on menopause symptoms
13:36 How long do perimenopause symptoms last?
17:52 Perimenopause at age 35?
18:34 Why hormone tests are worthless
20:53 The risk of chronic disease after menopause
24:53 Why does menopause increase hunger?
28:39 Why medicine and research is male-dominated
32:34 How to talk to your doctor about menopaue
34:12 Pregnancy research - 10x more extensive than menopause research!
35:14 Mary Claire’s toolkit of strategies for menopause
36:34 What are the long-term health benefits of hormone replacement therapy?
38:36 Is HRT safe for most women?
42:47 Brand new ZOE study results: diet and menopause
49:16 Top 3 tips to help with symptoms
54:34 What is ‘frozen shoulder’ and how can you treat it?
๐ Mary Claire's book
The New Menopause
๐ Books from our ZOE Scientists
Every Body Should Know This by Dr Federica Amati
Food For Life by Prof. Tim Spector
Mentioned in today's episode
Menopause transition and cardiovascular disease risk: Implications for timing of early prevention: A scientific statement from the American Heart Association in Circulation
The controversial history of hormone replacement therapy in Medicina
Dr. Vonda Wright’s website
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here
Episode transcripts are available here. -
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 for Your Family Table’. She will show us how to get the most out of spices, with simple cooking tips and delicious recipes.
Want to make Kanchan’s show stopper spice dish? Find the recipe here.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
Learn how your body responds to food ๐ zoe.com/podcast for 10% off
Follow ZOE on Instagram.
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction
01:26 Quickfire questions
03:08 What are spices?
03:43 Polyphenols in spices
07:25 Spices and your health
11:01 Cinnamon and blood sugar control
14:49 Anti-inflammatory benefits of spices
21:08 A practical guide to using spices
31:40 Reviving old spices
33:11 The wonders of ginger: from morning sickness to gut health
35:56 Spiced cooking tips
37:41 Breakfast ideas: add spices to start your day
39:44 Simple spicy snacks
42:05 Dinner delights: spicing up main meals
44:11 Spices for kids
46:24 Spiced drinks: from chai to golden milk
48:24 The ultimate spice dish
Studies related to today’s episode:
Safety and efficacy of curcumin versus diclofenac in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized open-label parallel-arm study published in Trials
Analgesic effect of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of clove, published in Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine
Effect of cinnamon spice on continuously monitored glycemic response in adults with prediabetes published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Star anise (Illicium verum): Chemical compounds, antiviral properties, and clinical relevance published in Phytotherapy Research
Ginger-Mechanism of action in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, published by Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here
Episode transcripts are available here. -
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. Federica Amati is a researcher at King’s College London and registered nutritionist. She is also lecturer and Nutrition Topic Lead at Imperial College School of Medicine. Federica empowers people with accessible, practical knowledge to make informed choices on diet and lifestyle and to improve health based on unique needs and preferences, at every stage of life.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
Learn how your body responds to food ๐ zoe.com/podcast for 10% off
Follow ZOE on Instagram
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction
01:17 Quickfire questions
03:32 The first window of opportunity is before you are born
06:04 It takes two to tango: equal roles in conception
07:25 The science behind sperm health and diet
09:10 What is life course nutrition?
10:35 Why generic nutrition advice isn't enough
13:00 Critical changes in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy
16:25 Nutritional needs in the second trimester of pregnancy
17:20 Preventing allergies during pregnancy
20:30 Nutrition in childhood and adolescence
21:00 The importance of a diverse diet for teenagers
22:57 Children learn to eat from us: exposure is key
25:10 The impact of ultra-processed foods on teenagers
27:40 Do you need to eat meat to grow well?
32:55 Lifestyle choices in your 30s affect long-term health
36:00 Longevity supplement myths
37:40 Gut microbiome changes in adulthood
43:28 How to extend your lifespan through diet at any age
46:05 Preparing for healthy aging and avoiding 'Sniper Alley'
50:10 How to eat right in your 70s and beyond
54:22 Protein needs as you age
56:30 Becoming a ZOE member is like having a nutritionist in your pocket!
59:20 Summary
Mentioned in today's episode:
Life expectancy can increase by up to 10 years following sustained shifts towards healthier diets in the United Kingdom, published in Nature Food
The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD), published in American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine
A single serving of mixed spices alters gut microflora composition: a dose–response randomised trial, published in Nature
Books:
Every Body Should Know This by Dr. Federica Amati
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here
Episode transcripts are available here. -
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 independence.
In today’s episode, Jonathan, Tim and Cyrus ask the question: How can understanding osteoporosis and implementing targeted lifestyle changes enhance bone health and reduce the risk of fractures?
Cyrus Cooper is a Professor of Rheumatology at the University of Southampton, where he is also the Director of the MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit and Vice-Dean of Medicine. In addition, he’s a Professor of Musculoskeletal Science at the Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences at the University of Oxford.
Tim Spector is one of the world’s top 100 most-cited scientists, a professor of epidemiology, and scientific Co-Founder at ZOE. Tim trained originally in rheumatology and epidemiology.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
Learn how your body responds to food ๐ zoe.com/podcast for 10% off
Follow ZOE on Instagram.
Timecodes
00:00 Introduction
01:21 Quickfire questions
03:08 What is osteoporosis?
06:10 Why might our bones become more fragile as we age?
08:10 Your skeleton renews itself all the time
10:30 Does menopause cause osteoporosis?
12:48 What's it like living with osteoporosis?
15:16 How common is osteoporosis in males?
16:04 What are the symptoms of osteoporosis and at what age should you get checked?
21:40 Some chilling statistics about osteoporosis
23:10 Common myths about the effects of calcium and vitamin D on osteoporosis
27:50 What is the latest science on vitamin D supplementation?
34:10 Can vitamin D and calcium ensure children’s bone density is healthy?
34:55 Osteoporosis treatment options, including new drugs
37:20 The impacts of HRT on bone density
39:30 What are the downsides to some of these treatments?
43:00 Does physical activity help to prevent fractures?
44:30 Lifestyle impacts: diet and nutrition
49:40 Can exercise make your bones stronger?
55:20 Ideal exercises to prevent osteoporosis
57:10 Cyrus and Tim’s top 3 actions to improve bone health
59:10 Summary
Mentioned in today's episode:
Accumulation of risk factors associated with poor bone health in older adults, published in Archives of Osteoporosis
Relevant studies:
Influence of vitamin D supplementation on bone mineral content, bone turnover markers and fracture risk, published in Journal of Bone and Mineral Research
Pregnancy Vitamin D Supplementation and Childhood Bone Mass at Age 4 Years, published in JBMR Plus
The role of calcium supplementation in healthy musculoskeletal ageing, published in Osteoporosis International
Books:
Osteoporosis: A Lifecourse Epidemiology Approach to Skeletal Health by Prof Cyrus Cooper
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here
Episode transcripts are available here. -
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 what it takes to be successful. Tim explores the groundbreaking findings of The Big IF Study from 2022, the largest exploration of intermittent fasting to date. They also unpack controversies and describe who might want to avoid fasting.
Gin Stephens is an intermittent fasting advocate, New York Times bestselling author, and podcast host. Gin has been living the intermittent fasting lifestyle since 2014.
Tim Spector is a professor of genetic epidemiology at King’s College London, director of the Twins UK study, scientific co-founder of ZOE, and one of the world’s leading researchers.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
Learn how your body responds to food ๐ zoe.com/podcast for 10% off
Want ZOE Science & Nutrition’s top 10 tips for healthier living? Download our FREE guide.
Timecodes:
01:25 Quick fire questions
03:25 What is intermittent fasting?
04:35 What are the most common types of fasting?
06:00 The circadian rhythm and fasting
08:22 The Big IF study explanation and results
13:41 Breakfast misconceptions explained
16:01 How do the Big IF study results compare to other research?
18:56 What are the health benefits of sticking to the Big IF study?
24:00 What is Tim’s intermittent fasting schedule like?
25:40 Jonathan's experience with the Big IF study
28:04 What is metabolic flexibility?
32:43 Practical advice for getting started.
35:40 Cephalic phase insulin response
40:30 Is there an ideal length for an eating window and time to start?
43:20 Can you eat whatever you want?
44:30 Can people over 70 years of age fast safely?
51:21 Summary
Mentioned in today's episode:
Flipping the metabolic switch: Understanding and applying the health benefits of fasting in Obesity
The Big IF Study
Books by Gin Stephens:
28-day Fast Start: Day By Day
Fast. Feast. Repeat.
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here
Episode transcripts are available here. -
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 harness the power of your muscles to enhance your quality of life. She is a professor in the Department of Physiology and Aging at the University of Florida, where she’s also the co-director of the University of Florida Older Americans Independence Center.
In today's episode of ZOE Science & Nutrition, Jonathan and Karyn explore the body's internal clocks and ask: why do our muscles have their own schedule, and is there an ideal time of day to exercise?
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Timecodes
00:00 Introduction
00:18 Quickfire questions
02:01 Why are muscles important, particularly as we get older?
08:45 Why we all lose strength as we age
11:07 What type of exercise do we need to maintain our muscle strength as we age?
14:55 What is a circadian clock?
19:25 Everything has a circadian rhythm
21:32 Why do our muscles work on a 24-hour cycle?
24:20 Humans are stronger in the afternoon
30:24 Is there a best time to exercise?
35:01 Can exercise before or after work help shift workers with jet lag?
37:33 Is there a difference between men and women’s responses to circadian rhythms?
41:44 What are the effects of time-restricted eating on muscle mass?
53:42 Summary
Mentioned in today's episode:
Defining the age-dependent and tissue-specific circadian transcriptome in male mice from Cell Reports
Related studies:
Timing is everything: Circadian clocks set the rhythm for vital functions in bacteria from the University of Chicago
Effects of resveratrol on in vitro circadian clock gene expression in young and older human adipose-derived progenitor cells in Aging
Age is associated with dampened circadian patterns of rest and activity: The Study of Muscle, Mobility and Aging (SOMMA) in medRxiv
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here
Episode transcripts are available here. -
How early should you start taking dementia seriously?
Here’s 5 things you can do now to reduce dementia risk today.
Professor Claire Steves and Jonathan Wolf explore the multifaceted world of dementia. They delve into the significance of dental health, genetics, diet, and physical activity — plus, they unpack the latest research — to give you practical strategies for preventing dementia.
Claire is a consultant physician in geriatric medicine at Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust. She’s also a senior clinical lecturer at King's College London and deputy clinical director of the institution’s Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology where she leads research on the characterization of physical and mental aging traits and frailty.
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Timecodes:
00:00 - Introduction
01:26 - Quickfire questions on dementia
02:42 - Main discussion: understanding dementia
04:18 - Control over fate with dementia
06:52 - Why older people get more fractures
08:32 - Warning signs of dementia
09:55 - Unique aspects of dementia
12:12 - Cellular level discussion on dementia
15:49 - Risk factors for dementia
16:07 - Inheritance and dementia
18:29 - High-risk factors for dementia
19:15 - Fetal development and dementia risk
21:47 - Brain reserves and mental health
24:24 - New advances in dementia treatment
30:47 - Medications and life expectancy
33:21 - Diet and dementia prevention
35:58 - The role of physical activity
39:45 - Oral health and dementia
42:10 - Social interaction and brain health
44:02 - Diabetes and dementia
45:36 - Women, HRT, and dementia
49:09 - Recap: Types of dementia
53:39 - Hearing aids and dementia prevention
55:39 - Episode sign-off
Studies related to today’s episode:
Brain-age is associated with progression to dementia in memory clinic patients from NeuroImage Clinical
Find our top 10 tips for healthier living: Download our FREE guide.
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Episode transcripts are available here. -
In today’s episode, we’re talking about a disease so widespread that it touches nearly every family in some way: type 2 diabetes. It’s not just a health issue, it's a rapidly expanding crisis. And many people don’t know that they have it.
In the U.S. alone, 100 million people have prediabetes, and more than 37 million have type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition with life-altering effects.
Prof. Naveed Sattar joins us to shed light on preventing, treating, and potentially reversing type 2 diabetes.
Naveed is a medical doctor and Professor of Metabolic Medicine at the Institute of Cardiovascular & Medical Sciences at the University of Glasgow. He’s one of the world’s top 1% most cited clinical scientists, and he’s worked on many clinical trials of lifestyle changes and drugs to prevent and manage diabetes.
Learn your diabetes risk score:
If you’re in the U.K. click here.
If you’re in the U.S. click here.
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Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction
01:00 Topic introduction
02:28 Quick fire questions
05:33 What is blood sugar and why does it matter?
07:15 What is insulin and what is its relation to blood sugar and diabetes?
08:48 Why doesn't the body allow sugar to increase in the blood?
10:45 What happens when somebody gets pre-diabetes or type 2?
14:34 What is HBA1C?
17:08 Why has there been such an increase in diabetes?
23:05 How does muscle mass have any impact on diabetes?
24:54 Are risks different between men and women?
27:08 How does ethnicity come into this?
31:04 What other personal risk factors are there?
32:29 What are the symptoms of diabetes?
33:53 When do these symptoms begin?
35:09 What should you do if you have concerns?
36:33 How to find out your own likelihood of risk
38:34 How can we avoid getting diabetes?
42:10 How can we combat genetic risk factors?
44:26 Is it possible to lower blood sugar and reverse the effects of diabetes?
47:18 What is the science behind the new drugs coming on the market?
49:20 Summary
53:39 Outro
Mentioned in today’s episode:
Primary care-led weight management for remission of type 2 diabetes (DiRECT): An open-label, cluster-randomised trial in The Lancet
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here.
Episode transcripts are available here. -
Do you know what SIBO is and how it could be affecting your health?
In today’s episode, Jonathan and Dr. Will Bulsiewicz dive into the world of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), a condition that may underlie common health issues ranging from irritable bowel syndrome to brain fog.
Together, they tackle myths and share insights into SIBO diagnosis and treatment. Could rebalancing your gut microbiome be the answer you've been searching for?
Dr. Will Bulsiewicz is board-certified in internal medicine and gastroenterology. He’s also a New York Times bestselling author. Dr. B has won multiple awards and distinctions for his work as a clinician.
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Timecodes
00:00 Introduction to SIBO
01:01 What is SIBO?
02:43 An overgrowth of bacteria
03:41 SIBO Myth #1 debunked
04:34 What is the link between SIBO and other diseases?
06:12 What are the challenges with SIBO Testing
06:48 Understanding testing methods
07:08 Myth #2 debunked
08:28 The issues with breath testing for SIBO
11:38 What are the root causes of SIBO
14:35 What is the impact of medication on SIBO?
16:12 Dietary management and low FODMAP diet
17:45 Probiotics and SIBO management
18:00 Myth# 3 debunked
19:55 Verdict
Mentioned in today’s episode:
Fiber supplementation protects from antibiotic-induced gut microbiome dysbiosis by modulating gut redox potential from Nature Communications
Our earlier podcast on the low-FODMAP diet
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here.
Episode transcripts are available here. -
Are you navigating the twists and turns of perimenopause and beyond? Traditional exercise advice often misses the mark for women in this phase, mostly because its source is research focused on men.
In today’s episode, we're joined by the acclaimed Dr. Stacy Sims, a leading expert on women's exercise science. Stacy delves into how menopause affects our exercise responses, and she offers strategies to adapt your fitness routine for optimal health during and after menopause.
Ready to transform your approach to health and fitness? Tune in for expert insights and actionable tips.
Dr. Stacy Sims is an exercise physiologist and nutrition scientist who researches exercise performance and nutrition with a focus on women’s health and performance. She holds a Ph.D. in exercise physiology and sports nutrition from the University of Otago, and she did a postdoc at Stanford, where she remains an adjunct faculty member. Stacy is also a research associate at the AUT Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
Learn how your body responds to food ๐ zoe.com/podcast for 10% off
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction
00:34 Quickfire questions
03:39 Menopause and perimenopause explained
08:23 What happens when oestrogen levels change?
11:28 When does perimenopause start to happen?
14:15 What is the role of exercise in menopause?
17:00 What are hot flushes?
20:20 How can exercise have a positive impact on menopause?
21:57 What are the best exercises to do?
25:20 You are NOT going to get bulky lifting weights!
28:36 Alternatives to going to the gym
33:08 What is high-intensity training?
41:32 What is the minimum exercise needed to have a positive health impact?
47:27 How does fasted training affect women?
51:36 Summary
Mentioned in today’s episode:
Hailey Happens Fitness
Les Mills
Train with Joan
And these books by Dr. Stacy Sims:
Next Level
Roar
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here.
Episode transcripts are available here. -
If you thought coffee was just a caffeine kick, think again.
Prof. Tim Spector & coffee expert James Hoffmann explore the intricate relationship between coffee and health.
They uncover truths and myths about caffeine and describe coffee’s fascinating role in improving gut health.
Tim also shares exciting news about soon-to-be published research. The topic: coffee and the gut microbiome. Plus, James brews coffee live in the studio and helps us understand the different coffee variants. He even dives into the world of coffee kombucha.
James Hoffmann is an English barista, YouTuber, entrepreneur, coffee consultant, and author. He came to prominence after winning the World Barista Championship in 2007 and is credited as a pioneer of Britain's third-wave coffee movement.
Tim is a professor of genetic epidemiology at King’s College London, director of the Twins UK study, scientific co-founder of ZOE, and one of the world’s leading researchers.
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*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
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Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction
01:50 Quickfire Questions
04:24 Why are we all so obsessed with coffee?
05:02 What are the health benefits associated with coffee?
06:40 There is a lot more fiber in coffee than you think
09:47 The effects of caffeine and gender differences
12:31 Why is coffee full of polyphenols?
15:12 Tim’s new research teaser
21:21 What is the health relationship between fiber, microbes and our bodies?
27:32 Should we all start drinking coffee and should we choose decaf?
31:52 Modern coffee is all about flavor
33:03 Does the way that we make coffee impact our health?
37:55 James explains his mini laboratory!
43:42 Why is coffee not regulated in coffee shop chains?
44:35 What's the best way to make coffee?
44:40 Coffee #1 Filter Coffee
47:10 Coffee #2 Decaf Coffee
51:00 Coffee #3 Instant Coffee
1:00:50 How does caffeine affect high blood pressure?
1:05:36 Summary
Mentioned in today’s episode:
How to Make the Best Coffee at Home by James Hoffman
Editorial correction: James refers to chlorogenic acid as a polyphenol. We have since learnt that this is incorrect. Rather, it is a phenolic compound or a phenolic acid. James has shared this short video on his YouTube channel clarifying this
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Episode transcripts are available here -
Do you want to live to 100? Dan Buettner may be able to help. Dietary patterns, community, environment, and stress management play pivotal roles in longevity, and he’s studied the longest living people on earth.
From Sardinia's matriarchal villages to Okinawa's garden-rich diets, this episode takes us on a tour of insights. It's not just about living longer, it's about thriving.
In today’s episode, Jonathan is joined by Dan Buettner and Prof. Tim Spector to discuss the secrets of a longer, healthier life. Together, they journey through the world’s blue zones, rare global hotspots where celebrating your 100th birthday is common. The guests also address the threats to these longevity havens and the decline of traditional diets.
Dan Buettner is an American National Geographic fellow and New York Times bestselling author. He’s also an explorer, educator, and creator of the Netflix series “Live to 100,” which discovers five unique communities where people live extraordinarily long and vibrant lives.
Tim Spector is a professor of genetic epidemiology at King’s College London, director of the Twins UK study, scientific co-founder of ZOE, and one of the world’s leading researchers. He's also the author of Food for Life, his latest book on nutrition and health.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
Learn how your body responds to food ๐ zoe.com/podcast for 10% off
Timecodes:
00:00 Introduction
01:09 Quickfire questions
02:33 What are Blue Zones?
04:43 Why do people in Blue Zones live longer?
06:48 What is a Centenarian?
09:00 What are Blue Zone diets?
11:49 Foods for longevity
15:03 Why are these foods good for us?
19:15 Why Blue Zone diets are seasonal and inexpensive
22:30 Is eating meat 5 times a month healthy for us?
27:42 Why are the Blue Zones disappearing?
31:25 Blue Zone tactics to reduce stress
36:02 Can stress reduce life expectancy?
40:36 Why unconscious physical activity is best
45:07 How can we make our lives more ‘Blue Zone’ like?
47:23 The number one thing you can do to add years to your life is…
48:53 Dan's stress reduction techniques
51:39 What is Dan’s daily diet?
53:16 Summary
Mentioned in today's episode:
Telomere shortening and the transition to family caregiving in the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke (REGARDS) study from PLOS One
Books and series from Dan Buettner:
The Blue Zones Challenge: A 4-Week Plan for a Longer, Better Life
The Blue Zones Secrets for Living Longer: Lessons From the Healthiest Places on Earth
The Blue Zones Kitchen: 100 Recipes to Live to 100
"Live to 100"
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here
Episode transcripts are available here. -
We've probably all heard of “antihistamines,” medications that can ease symptoms of hay fever and other allergies.
But what is “histamine”? It’s a vital chemical that our bodies produce, and it plays a role in a number of functions that support our health.
Histamine intolerance seems to be increasingly common, but it’s difficult to diagnose. Some people may not be aware that they have it or how to treat it.
In today’s episode of ZOE Science & Nutrition, Jonathan speaks with Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, ZOE’s U.S. medical director, to learn more about this flourishing area of research — and the best ways to identify and treat histamine intolerance.
Will is a board-certified gastroenterologist, and New York Times bestselling author of the microbiome book Fiber Fueled.
๐ฑ Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
Learn how your body responds to food ๐ zoe.com/podcast for 10% off
Mentioned in today’s episode:
Resistant potato starch supplementation reduces serum histamine levels in healthy adults with links to attenuated intestinal permeability published in Journal of Functional Foods
Histamine and histamine intolerance published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Histamine intolerance: The current state of the art published in Biomolecules
Have feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here
Episode transcripts are available here. - Show more
