Alternative Food Network Archives: Recent Episodes
Alternative Food Network
The Alternative Food Network Archive episodes are early podcasts from when we started talking about topics related to food and health. If you'd like to hear our more recent podcasts, search Alternative Food Network or our series, "Plant Based Diet" and "Doctors+".
Is there a better way to prevent and treat chronic diseases? The concept of lifestyle medicine is explored in this episode with renowned lifestyle medicine expert Dexter Shurney, MD, MBA, MPH, FACLM. We discuss how lifestyle medicine approaches can improve health outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and create sustainable healthy habits.
In this episode you’ll hear:
1:30 - What is lifestyle medicine?
4:20 – The pillars of lifestyle medicine.
6:15 – Does the general public currently have access to lifestyle medicine?
7:00 – Fee for service medicine vs other reimbursement mechanisms.
11:00 – Lifestyle medicine, health equity and chronic stress.
15:50 – What does ‘food as medicine’ really mean?
19:30 – What are the Blue Zones?
21:15 – The Blue Zones Wellbeing Institute.
24:15 – Easy-to-remember tip to lower cholesterol.
26:10 – What does a lifestyle medicine practice look like?
30:45 – Dr. Shurney’s professional journey.
36:30 – Is lifestyle medicine the future?
38:30 – Dr. Shurney’s favorite meals.
As Referenced in episode:
https://www.adventisthealth.org/about-us/well-being/
https://www.bluezones.com/dan-buettner/
Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin
©2023 Alternative Food Network Inc.
Dr. Falquier has the privilege of interviewing Dr. Sheila Patel, a board certified family physician and an expert in Ayurveda who has served as Chief Medical Officer for Chopra Global. Dr. Patel shares her insights into Ayurveda, how it promotes well-being and balance, and delves into the concept of the “six tastes of life”. Discover the unique qualities and benefits associated with each taste, and how to incorporate them into your diet for optimal health.
In this episode you’ll hear:
1:00 - What is Ayurveda?
10:30 - Dr. Patel’s professional journey that led to integrating Ayurveda in her medical practice and working at the Chopra Center.
15:45 - How do other physicians respond to Dr. Patel’s work?
17:25 - What is the rationale for Ayurveda from a science perspective?
19:45 - Ayurveda for digestion, sleep, stress management.
25:45 - The six tastes of life in Ayurveda.
39:30 - Dr. Patel’s work with Chopra Global & Civana Wellness Resort & Spa.
46:10 - How you can learn more about Ayurveda.
Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin
©2023 Alternative Food Network Inc.
Referenced in the episode: https://chopra.com/
In this episode, dermatologist Phillip Lee, MD, chats with Dr. Falquier how the foods we put into our bodies can affect our skin. They discuss the different foods that can help promote better skin health, as well as lifestyle changes you can make to prevent skin problems from occurring. Topics include anti-aging, collagen, acne, eczema, psoriasis and rosacea. Tune in to learn how nutrition can be the key to unlocking beautiful, glowing skin.
In this episode you’ll hear:
1:45 – What food choices are helpful to treat acne?
9:40 – Tips to lower inflammation and flares for eczema/atopic dermatitis & psoriasis.
19:40 – Microbiome/gut-skin axis.
20:30 – What is rosacea and what foods exacerbate it?
27:30 – UV light and sun protection; What SPF is recommended?
35:40 – Anti-aging – can diet affect wrinkles?
42:50 – Other lifestyle choice that can affect skin aging.
46:00 – Probiotics and prebiotics for skin health
52:20 – Is collagen all hype or can topical and oral collagen be effective?
Guest link: https://www.dermartsla.com/
Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin
©2023 Alternative Food Network Inc.
Pulmonologist and integrative medicine practitioner, Dr. Ni-Cheng Liang, discusses various lung issues such as asthma, COPD, lung cancer, and what to eat & drink to improve respiratory function, including for Covid and flu. She explains current medical literature about integrative lung care, and also shares her personal cancer journey and how she found mindfulness to be a powerful tool in her healing process. Dr. Liang leads a guided mindfulness practice and 4-7-8 breathing exercise for listeners towards the end of the episode.
In this episode you’ll hear:
2:00 - What is a pulmonologist?
2:30 - Difference between complementary v. integrative medicine
3:45 - Integrative medicine for the lungs.
7:45 - Medical literature about integrative lung care.
9:00 - Mindfulness, yoga, breath work, acupressure.
14:10 - Food as medicine for lung conditions.
17:45 - What to eat & drink to improve respiratory function, including for Covid and flu.
24:10 - Dairy and the lungs.
26:15 - Gut-lung microbiome.
29:00 - Group visits in pulmonary care.
31:00 - Impact of Dr. Liang’s personal cancer experience on her present day practice.
34:50 - Benefits of mindfulness practice for lung cancer.
36:20 – Short mindfulness practice with 4-7-8 breathing.
42:10 - Vaping, joints and e-cigarettes - is there one that’s safer for lungs?
Referenced in the episode:
* https://awakenbreath.org/
* https://www.mindfulhealthcarecollective.com/
* https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28569578/
* https://www.thoracic.org/patients/patient-resources/resources/mindfulness.pdf
* https://www.mindful.org/a-12-minute-4-7-8-breathing-meditation/
* https://www.thoracic.org/patients/patient-resources/resources/integrative-medicine.pdf
Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin
©2023 Alternative Food Network Inc.
Diabetes is a serious condition that can have a major impact on a person’s health and quality of life. But it’s not all bad news. In this episode, Dr. Falquier discusses with Catherine Chan, PhD, lifestyle changes and patterns of eating that have been shown to lower risk and benefit people with diabetes. Whether you’re looking to reduce your risk of diabetes or better manage an existing diagnosis, this episode is for you.
In this episode you’ll hear:
1:30 – Difference between type 1 & type 2 diabetes
4:30 – What is prediabetes?
5:10 – Diabetes prevention programs
8:30 – Diabetes statistics
10:15 – Health consequences of diabetes
13:00 – Is diabetes risk genetic?
14:00 – Nutrition transition – Diabetes increase in immigrant and indigenous communities.
18:45 – Patterns of eating that benefit people with diabetes.
30:30 – Concerns over low carb and keto diet
35:00 – What is insulin resistance?
38:30 – The good news
40:30 – Can you just take a pill and eat whatever you want?
44:15 – What is culinary medicine?
46:00 – Sugar substitutes
50:00 – How to change eating behaviors for the better?
Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin
©2023 Alternative Food Network Inc.
Dr. Nishi Bhopal, a board certified expert in Psychiatry, Sleep Medicine, and Integrative Holistic Medicine, explains what integrative psychiatry is and how it can be used to treat mental health issues such as depression. She provides insights on how to integrate different treatment approaches including both conventional and evidence-based complementary and alternative treatments such as nutrition and lifestyle modifications to optimize outcomes and improve quality of life.
In this episode you’ll hear:
1:40 – What is integrated vs. integrative psychiatry?
3:25 – How Dr. Bhopal got into integrative psychiatry.
4:40 – The gut-brain axis.
7:40 – Recent study about the serotonin theory of depression and the role of SSRIs.
10:15 – Dr. Bhopal’s approach with her patients.
14:10 – Dr. Bhopal’s food suggestions – what, when & how to eat.
20:55 – Dr. Bhopal’s advice when a patient is overwhelmed.
22:50 – SMART goals.
24:00 – Tools in the integrative psychiatry tool box.
26:25 – The use of supplements in depression treatment plans.
29:15 – Suggested resources.
As Referenced in episode:
* Pacific Integrative Psych: https://pacificintegrativepsych.com/
* https://www.youtube.com/@IntraBalance
* SMART Goals: https://positivepsychology.com/goal-setting-psychology/
* Memorial Sloan Kettering – About Herbs: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/diagnosis-treatment/symptom-management/integrative-medicine/herbs/search
Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin
©2023 Alternative Food Network Inc.
This episode delves into the fascinating world of fasting for health and longevity. Fasting has been practiced for centuries across various cultures and religions but recent scientific research has shed light on its potential for longevity and increasing healthspan. Dr. Joseph Antoun, CEO of L-Nutra, shares the latest scientific findings that highlight how the fasting mimicking diet can promote cellular rejuvenation, enhance metabolic function, and potentially extend lifespan.
In this episode you’ll hear:
1:00 – Difference between intermittent fasting and prolonged/periodic fasting.
5:00 – Autophagy & cellular rejuvenation.
6:30 – Fasting mimicking diet.
13:30 – Health benefits of a fasting mimicking diet.
21:20 – Therapeutic fasting nutrition for diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s and auto-immune diseases. 25:20 – Why fasting mimicking is not a fad diet.
30:10 – What happens after the fast?
34:20 – Who should not do the fasting mimicking approach?
35:15 – Any insurance coverage?
37:15 –12 hour circadian fasting.
References:
Save 15% on prolon® with discount code AFN15 here. If you use the link, Alternative Food Network may receive a small commission from your purchase.
Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin
©2023 Alternative Food Network Inc.
Is Alzheimer’s genetic? Dr. Annie Fenn, founder of the Brain Health Kitchen, joins Dr. Falquier to discuss the role genetics plays in Alzheimer’s disease, as well as strategies and lifestyle changes that can help reduce the risk of developing this devastating brain disease. Tune in to learn how to take care of your brain while still enjoying delicious food.
In this episode you’ll hear:
1:40 - From OB/GYN physician to studying culinary arts.
9:00 - The MIND Diet.
12:15 - Dr. Fenn’s mother’s diagnosis with mild cognitive impairment, an early stage of Alzheimer’s.
14:20 - What is Dementia and what is Alzheimer’s?
17:30 - Cognitive changes at menopause.
18:15 - Ultra-processed foods and cognitive decline study.
20:30 - How to get into a brain health mindset.
24:50 - Is Alzheimer’s genetic? Early v. late onset Alzheimer’s.
28:00 - Even if you have the APOE4 gene, can one’s lifestyle help reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s? 30:10 - What can people do to improve their brain health?
40:00 - At what age should people be mindful of lifestyle choices for their brain health?
41:15 - How quickly do people notice changes on a brain healthy diet?
42:30 - Can we learn to crave healthier foods?
46:00 - Recommended food groups.
54:15 - Research on alcohol and brain health.
59:00 - At what age is alcohol most neurotoxic?
1:00:30 - What can we learn from Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health?
1:04:00 - Dr. Fenn’s cookbook The Brain Health Kitchen: Preventing Alzheimer’s Through Food 1:06:30 - Mindset for aging successfully
As Referenced in episode:
* MIND Diet
* Association Between Consumption of Ultraprocessed Foods and Cognitive Decline
Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS, DipABLM
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin
©2023 Alternative Food Network Inc.
“As someone who has tried every diet there is to be tried, I can attest to the fact that diets do not work. Diets do not uncover the psychology behind every individual’s eating experience, and do not consider each person’s unique genetic makeup.” - Dr. Ashley White
Whether you’re struggling with your weight or you’re a healthcare professional who wants to learn more about appetite literacy, here’s a must-listen episode with guest Ashley White, M.D., who is an Appetite Coach and has specialties in family, emergency and obesity medicine. Dr. White chats with Dr. Falquier about how appetite literacy can help people liberate themselves from diet culture and transform their lives.
In this episode you’ll hear:
2:00 – Dr. White’s personal struggles with weight
8:10 – How Dr. White used her personal transformation and incorporated it into her medical practice
13:45 – Why is Dr. White’s approach to weight optimization different?
17:35 – Treatment for 2 groups of people: i) Large-bodied for most of one’s life v. ii) Heavier later in life 22:30 – How to create intentional eating experiences with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy & Mindfulness
34:00 – Learn your appetite
Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin
©2022 Alternative Food Network Inc.
Dr. Maria R. Mascarenhas is back to discuss: 1. The difference between Irritable Bowel Syndrome & Inflammatory Bowel Disease 2. The difference between Celiac Disease and Gluten Intolerance 3. Drugs v. dietary changes to treat gastro issues.
In this episode you'll hear:
1:30 – What are common patient issues in Dr. Mascarenhas’ practice?
2:45 – Difference between Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) & Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
4:30 – Artificial sweeteners, the gut-brain connection and your microbiome
5:50 – How Dr. Mascarenhas diagnoses gastro issues
7:00 – Irritable Bowel Syndrome treatment options: drugs v. dietary changes
11:35 – Difference between Celiac Disease & Gluten Intolerance
16:15 – Examples of gluten-free grains
19:00 – Reasons for constipation
20:00 – Fiber
21:55 – Hydration and homemade popsicles
24:50 – Dr. Mascarenhas’ opinion on sports drinks for young athletes
25:45 – Dr. Mascarenhas’ opinion on low carb & low fat diets for kids
27:40 – What is a plant based diet?
31:00 – The power of spices
36:15 – Bringing integrative and culinary medicine into mainstream pediatrics
As referenced in the episode:
The Anti-Inflammatory Family Cookbook: The Kid-Friendly, Pediatrician-Approved Way to Transform Your Family’s Health*
* The Healthy Eating Plate: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/healthy-eating-plate
Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin
©2022 Alternative Food Network Inc.
If you’ve got kids, this is a must listen! Do you know how many calories your child needs each day, and from where they should be getting them? In this interview with pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Maria Mascarenhas, you will learn: 1. The importance of quality and quantity when it comes to child nutrition 2. The potential for malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies in children who consume a processed food diet 3. How the Harvard Healthy Eating Plate can help guide parents in choosing nutrient dense foods for their children.
In this episode you'll hear:
3:45 – How should children get their calories.
5:40 – Consequences of ultra-processed foods.
7:30 – School lunch ideas.
10:00 – What nutrients are necessary and in what amounts.
12:35 – Harvard Healthy Eating Plate.
14:25 – Long term health issues if a child does get proper calories & nutrients.
17:50 – Macronutrients vs micronutrients.
19:05 – Impact of ultra-processed foods on microbiome.
19:45 – The impact of diet during pregnancy on the fetus.
21:30 – Cultural influences on food choices.
23:15 – Food tips to turn things around.
32:40 – Do medical students learn about nutrition in medical school?
37:30 –The Anti-Inflammatory Family Cookbook
42:40 – Contact information for Dr. Mascarenhas.
As referenced in the episode:
The Anti-Inflammatory Family Cookbook: The Kid-Friendly, Pediatrician-Approved Way to Transform Your Family’s Health*
* The Healthy Eating Plate: https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/healthy-eating-plate
Credits:
Host: Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS
Sound and Editing: Will Crann
Executive Producer: Esther Garfin ©2022 Alternative Food Network Inc.
“The role of nutrition is really important in maintaining good health and maintaining the immune system. It’s part of the holistic part of treatment of the cancer.” Ben Chue, M.D.
If you or someone you know is undergoing chemotherapy, don’t miss Dr. Falquier’s interview about the role of diet during and after chemotherapy to reduce harsh side effects and maximize treatment outcomes. Her guests are medical oncologist Dr. Ben Chue and naturopath & functional medicine doctor Easter Ho. In addition, you’ll hear how a medical oncologist and functional medicine and naturopathic doctor work together to provide an integrated approach to cancer treatment. Find the recipe that goes with this episode in the Doctors+ Premium subscription on Apple Podcasts. Link below.
In this episode you’ll hear:
4:00 – How Dr. Chue and Dr. Ho work together to provide an integrated approach to cancer treatment. 5:30 – Collaborative visits for cancer patients.
7:45 – Can complementary treatments be combined with traditional chemotherapy to lessen side effects of chemotherapy?
9:00 – Examples of complementary treatments for chemotherapy.
11:00 – Is there a role for alternative treatments without chemotherapy in the early cancer stages? 12:10 – Curcumin and intravenous vitamin C to enhance the benefits of chemotherapy.
15:30 – The role of nutrition during cancer treatment.
17:10 – Food suggestions during and after chemo treatment.
21:50 – Blood tests to determine what’s going on nutritionally.
25:20 – Iron absorption for a plant-based eater.
28:00 – Preventing recurrence of a cancer.
29:00 – Prevent cancer altogether.
30:30 – Exercise for cancer prevention.
32:00 - Exercise when undergoing chemotherapy.
33:40 – Pillars of wellness.
36:00 – The future of cancer treatment.
36:40 – Supporting the body during chemo through diet and lifestyle.
Credits:
Host - Dr. Sabrina Falquier, MD, CCMS
Sound and Editing - Will Crann
Executive Producer - Esther Garfin
©2022 Alternative Food Network Inc.
Guest Links:
* www.dreasterho.com
* https://www.lifespringcancercenter.com/
Recipe for Iron Absorption: https://apple.co/3rTthD5
Wildfires are increasing in frequency. Help protect your health with valuable insights, practical tips and expert guidance in this episode. Pulmonologist Dr. Ni-Cheng Liang discusses the various health risks associated with wildfires and shares practical strategies to mitigate their impact on our well-being.
In this episode you’ll hear:
1:20 – What people can do to protect themselves from breathing wildfire smoke.
3:15 – Are masks effective to decrease soot and particulate matter?
4:00 – Symptoms of exposure to wildfire smoke.
4:40 – Can the lungs be detoxed upon exposure to wildfire smoke?
5:40 – Should you exercise during a wildfire even indoors?
6:15 – Thyme, honey and oregano to ease chest congestion.
7:10 – Who is most at risk from exposure to wildfire smoke?
7:45 – When should someone seek medical attention?
Referenced in episode:
* https://www.lung.org/getmedia/695663e2-bdb8-4a61-9322-02657f530b99/Protect-Your-Health-During-Wildfires-5-29-2020-(1).pdf
* https://www.thoracic.org/patients/patient-resources/resources/wildfires.pdf
* Integrative Strategies for Lung Care: A Conversation with Dr. Ni-Cheng Liang: https://apple.co/40o4pjU
The more alcohol you drink per week, the higher the risks according to Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health. In this episode, Dr. Sabrina Falquier provides a quick summary of the new Guidance, including the risks associated with number of drinks consumed per week.
For more on alcohol and brain health, and how to reduce brain disease risk and optimize brain health, be sure to catch Dr. Falquier’s podcast episode with physician, author and culinary instructor, Dr. Annie Fenn, who founded the Brain Health Kitchen as a way to fight Alzheimer’s. Available now as part of the Doctors+ Premium subscription on Apple Podcasts. You are never too young to be thinking about brain health.
As referenced in this episode:
* Subscribe to Doctors+ Premium Episodes on Apple Podcasts.
* Canada’s Guidance on Alcohol and Health: Final Report
CREDITS:
Sound Recording and Editing: Will Crann
Executive Producer: Esther Garfin
©2023 Alternative Food Network Inc.
Are you looking for reliable health information online, but not sure where to start? In this episode, two physicians discuss how to find credible sources of health information, so you can make more informed decisions about your own health. They cover tips for identifying reputable sources and distinguishing between reliable and unreliable information.
CREDITS:
Sound Recording and Editing: Will Crann
“Delicious and fantastic for your body can and should come together,” says culinary medicine physician and new host of Doctors+ Premium, Dr. Sabrina Falquier. In this episode, Esther Garfin, founder of Alternative Food Network, chats with Dr. Falquier about her new role as host and the benefits of the subscription Doctors+ Premium episodes on Apple Podcasts. A self-described lover of delicious food, Dr. Falquier explains the little understood connection between food and medicine, and how food can play a huge role that goes along with the mainstream medical system. The goal is simple: teach people which foods are better for their body and how to cook in a delicious way to improve health. We invite you to subscribe to these premium episodes that are a perfect blend of information from top medical experts and practical recipe making.
Subscribe to Doctors+ Premium here: https://apple.co/3EPaPjF
We appreciate your support!
What’s the difference between premenopause, perimenopause and menopause? Shifting hormones during these stages can have a broad impact on home and work life, and it's time to stop brushing symptoms under the rug. In this episode, Drs. Susan Baumgaertel and Sabrina Falquier discuss what to expect and how to deal with symptoms such as weight gain, hot flashes, libido concerns and sleep disruption.
In this episode you’ll hear:
2:55 – Pre-menopause, perimenopause and menopause explained
5:05 – Hot flashes
7:10 – Night sweats
7:45 – Sleep disruption
8:40 – Fatigue
9:35 – Body image “Live with gusto”
10:10 – Mental health including brain fog, depression, anxiety – “Know that you’re not alone.”
10:55 – Stress
11:20 – Vaginal dryness
12:10 – Loss of libido
12:50 – Urinary tract changes
13:40 – Osteoporosis
14:15 – Skin and hair changes
14:50 – Impact of menopause on chronic disease
15:20 – Cancer risk during menopause
15:55 – Weight gain during menopause
19:10 – 5 Pillars of wellness: Food, Movement, Sleep, Connection, Mindfulness
22:10 – Headaches
25:00 – Does soy foods help during menopause?
25:25 – Are there foods to eat or exclude at certain times of the cycle?
In this 13-minute episode of Doctors+ excerpted from a livestream cooking class, Dr. Sabrina Falquier and cookbook author Dr. Linda Shiue, both physicians and culinary medicine experts, discuss the health benefits of various spices.
In this episode you’ll hear:
2:00 - Should you take spices as a supplement?
3:00 – What is the best way to store spices?
4:35 – Smoked paprika in plant-based cooking
6:10 – Garlic
7:15 – Coriander
7:45 – Salt
8:15 – Sumac
8:30 – Cumin
9:35 – Chili peppers
In the conversation about food, nutrition and food as medicine, there is an emerging evidence-based field of medicine called culinary medicine. In this 7-minute episode, Drs. Linda Shiue and Sabrina Falquier, both medical doctors who are culinary medicine experts, explain what culinary medicine is and how they got into this area.
Diet matters in heart disease says Dr. Joel Kahn, MD, FACC, also known as “America’s Healthy Heart Doc”, who is interviewed in this episode. A practicing cardiologist, professor, author and the first physician in the world to certify in metabolic cardiology, Dr. Kahn discusses the role of diet in the prevention and reversal of heart disease. Later in the episode, he is joined by Energybits Founder & CEO, Catharine Arnston, to talk about the health benefits of microalgae for heart health.
In this episode you’ll hear:
2:40 - What is metabolic cardiology?
4:30 – The role of genetics v. lifestyle in cardiovascular disease
6:55 – The role of diet in heart disease
10:15- Food as medicine for heart health: prevention and reversal
12:10 – Dr. Kahn on the American Heart Association and ethical conflicts
16:10 – Oil free diet: yes or no?
18:35 – What should people look for when buying extra virgin olive oil?
21:15 – Patient concerns when Dr. Kahn recommends a diet change
23:00 – Ketogenic diets and cardiac health
25:30 - Heart palpitations and coffee
27:25 – Microalgae (spirulina and chlorella) for heart health
Use code AFN to get 20% off your ENERGYbits at www.energybits.com.
Regulation of healthcare professions helps to provide health services to the public that are professional, safe and ethical. Should all physicians be governed by similar professional conduct rules? In this episode, integrative medicine consultant, Dr. Esther Konigsberg, and health law lawyer, Elyse Sunshine, discuss potential issues relating to professional conduct expectations of physicians practicing complementary and alternative medicine.
Resources
http://policyconsult.cpso.on.ca/?page_id=13083
cam@cpso.on.ca
https://www.onpim.ca/
If you’re a foodie who’s into health, this episode is a must listen. Imagine going to your doctor’s office and participating in a cooking class with the doctor that’s covered by insurance! Our guest in this episode does just that. Dr. Sabrina Falquier Montgrain, MD, is a primary care physician who also specializes in Culinary Medicine. In this episode, she chats about culinary medicine and the Mediterranean Diet.
In this podcast you’ll hear:
3:30 - What is culinary medicine?
4:30 – Dr. Falquier’s path to specializing in culinary medicine
6:30 – How Dr. Falquier teaches cooking in her medical practice that’s covered by insurance!
14:40 – The Mediterranean Die pattern of eating
16:30 – 9 point Mediterranean Scale
21:10 – How Dr. Falquier helps her patients with their diet
22:00 – Mediterranean scale breakfast, lunch and dinner ideas
What should you be eating and drinking if you’re recovering from COVID-19? Unfortunately, many COVID patients or “long haulers” continue to have lingering symptoms. In this episode, returning guest and Integrative Medicine Consultant Dr. Esther Konigsberg, MD, provides credible tips on fighting infection and treating fatigue, muscle pain, respiratory and gastro issues resulting from COVID-19.
In this podcast you’ll hear:
2:40 – What the body needs when fighting infection
7:10 – Tips to deal with specific symptoms during Coronavirus recovery (fatigue, respiratory issues, gastrointestinal issues, muscle & joint pain)
14:20 – Latest on Vitamin D and COVID-19
17:40 – Should you get your Vitamin D level tested?
20:00 – How to find an integrative practitioner in your area
If you suffer from stomach pain or other gastrointestinal disorders, you won’t want to miss this episode with one of the only integrative gastroenterologists in the United States, Dr. Marvin Singh, MD. He explains the idea of personalized medicine, and how our genes and what we eat interact, otherwise known as nutrigenomics. Thinking of starting a trending diet? Listen to this episode first because that diet may not be right for you.
In this podcast you’ll hear:
1:50 - What is an integrative gastroenterologist?
3:30 - Dr. Singh’s professional journey to becoming an integrative gastroenterologist and how it affected his personal diet choices/health choices
9:30 – What is personalized medicine?
12:40 – Dr. Singh’s integrative approach to gastrointestinal problems and his diagnostic methods
17:20 – Nutritional genomics: the science of applying nutritional recommendations based on one’s genes
25:15 – How affordable is this type of healthcare?
29:30 – How does a person find the right healthcare provider?
32:00 – Types of patients that Dr. Singh treats
33:00 – SIBO: Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth
37:00 – Why can’t I eat this? (food sensitivities, leaky gut, celiac, crohn’s)
39:30 – What’s wrong with diets for the masses?
40:00 – Are stomach problems hereditary?
Are you suffering from hormonal imbalance and would you even know if you were? From diabetes and weight gain to infertility and moodiness, hormonal imbalance can cause many health problems for both men and women. In this episode, Dr. Kyrin Dunston MD, a board certified Obgyn and Functional Medicine practitioner, discusses the various hormones in our body and why diet can play an important role in hormonal balance. She shares her own personal and professional journey to achieving better health outcomes and offers diet tips to balance hormones.
In this episode you’ll hear:
2:00 – Dr. Dunston’s personal and professional journey to becoming a functional medicine practitioner; from being overweight, anxious, depressed and suffering from chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia to discovering functional medicine and regaining her vitality.
10:30 – Difference between functional medicine and mainstream medicine
12:30 – Functional medicine and the cause of health problems: hormone imbalance, toxicity, nutritional deficiency, energetic imbalance
14:30 – Are most functional medicine practitioners MD’s?
15:00 - What to do when you’re not feeling right
16:45 - Symptoms of sex hormone imbalance in all ages
19:45 – Perimenopause, menopause and different types of hormone replacement therapy (synthetic hormone replacement, bioidentical hormones)
23:00 - Dr. Dunston’s position on bioidentical hormones
26:10 – At what age should a woman check her sex hormone levels?
30:40 – Types of hormones and can we address hormonal imbalance with diet?
34:20 - Blood sugar roller coaster – are you hangry?
38:00 – How should we eat?
43:00 – The problem with standard diets today
50:45 – Dr. Dunston’s top food picks
56:00 - Greenwashing
Think back to biology 101 when you learned that mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell. These mitochondria need nutrients to function properly or else chronic disease can result, according Dr. Mel Litman MD, a family physician whose practice follows the principles of orthomolecular medicine. Unfortunately, our diets today are low in critical nutrients plus we are being bombarded with toxins that disrupt our system even more. In this episode, Dr. Litman explains the connection between mitochondrial dysfunction and chronic disease, and the importance of choosing clean and nutrient dense foods that help us “get the good stuff in and the bad stuff out”.
In this episode you’ll hear:
2:40 - What is orthomolecular/nutritional medicine?
4:40 - Is orthomolecular medicine the same as functional medicine?
5:30 - Why is nutrition so important?
6:00 - “Hope is an indispensable ally of the physician and an absolute right of the patient.”
8:40 - Dr. Litman’s professional journey
14:00 - What are mitochondria?
17:15 - What happens if mitochondria don’t function properly? (e.g. neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular diseases, auto-immune diseases, psychiatric problems)
19:30 - Testing
20:30 - Nutrient deficiencies and toxins
21:45 - What is toxic to the mitochondria? (e.g. heavy metals, pesticides, plastics, certain medication)
23:10 - How Dr. Litman gets the health picture of his patients
26:15 - Can we get the recommended nutrients from diet alone?
27:00 - Depletion of nutrients in food supply
28:00 - The role of supplements
31:20 - Science-based evidence
31:50 - How to find good quality supplements
34:40 - Dr. Litman’s success rate
36:10 - Is medical school teaching this area?
37:00 - Cancer and mitochondrial damage
In part 2 of our interview with Integrative Psychiatrist Dr. Linda Plowright, we continue the conversation about the role of diet in creating healthy brain cells. Dr. Plowright discusses the importance of certain vitamins and minerals, whether a good diet can increase the efficacy of certain medication, and practical tips for meal preparation.
Can your diet affect your mental health? In part 1 of a 2 part interview, Integrative Psychiatrist Dr. Linda Plowright, MD discusses how nutrition plays a role in the treatment of mental illness. Dr. Plowright shares scientific research on the connection between inflammation and psychiatric illness and provides practical examples of pro and anti-inflammatory foods. Great science-based information for people both in and outside of the healthcare profession.
What should you do if you have a dental problem during the COVID pandemic? In this episode, Dr. Y. Lenga, DDS, MSC, FRCDC, DIP discusses what people can do if an emergency or non-emergency dental problem arises. He discusses infection prevention from his perspective as a dentist and provides food tips to reduce oral inflammation.
What can you do to strengthen your immune system? At the time of the recording of this podcast, there is an outbreak of the coronavirus called COVID-19. In this episode of Doctors+, Dr. Esther Konigsberg, MD CCFP, discusses integrative strategies to boost the immune system. You’ll learn about foods and vitamins that can boost the immune system, and what to avoid if you have COVID-19.
In this podcast you’ll hear:
2:35 - Can a strong immune system prevent someone from getting COVID-19?
4:30 - Prevention strategies
5:30 - Can the severity of symptoms be lessened with a strong immune system?
6:40 - Viral load
7:20 - Boosting the immune system with sleep, stress management, exercise
12:00 - Boosting immunity and reducing inflammation with diet
16:30 - Vitamin C and other natural health products to boost immune system
19:00 - Cautions on what natural health products to avoid during symptoms of infection or if test positive for COVID-19. NOTE: FOR UPDATED DISCUSSION ON VITAMIN D, LISTEN TO EPISODE 13 OF DOCTORS+, "COVID RECOVERY: WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK", WHERE DR. KONIGSBERG PROVIDES NEW INFORMATION ABOUT TAKING VITAMIN D WITH COVID SYMPTOMS.
23:00 - Supplements that can boost immune system, continued.
25:00 – Importance of consulting a qualified healthcare practitioner
26:30 – Frozen v. canned food
28:00 – Safe grocery shopping
31:15 - Healthy snack ideas for kids
32:00 – Dispelling COVID myths
The connection between the gut and the brain is fascinating! In this episode, Dr. Simran Rattan, MD, an integrative medicine physician, integrative health coach, meditation coach and tai chi instructor, explains the gut-brain axis and how inflammation, mental health and chronic disease fit in. You’ll learn about leaky gut, our microbiome and what causes gut imbalance. Plus, discover what foods can help restore gut balance, including a discussion about prebiotics, probiotics and fermented foods.
In this podcast you’ll hear:
5:45 - Gut-brain Axis: a 2 way street
8:15 – Microbiome and leaky gut
10:15 - Gluten sensitivity and leaky gut
11:15 -The connection between gut imbalance and eczema
12:47 -Signs of leaky gut (bloating, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, mood changes, abdominal pain)
13:20 – Stomach aches & migraines in children
17:00 – Mind-body therapy
17:35 - What causes gut imbalance?
19:00 -Relationship between gut health, nutrition and mental health
19:20 -Whole foods
19:40 -Anti-inflammatory foods & Mediterranean diet
22:50 –Fermented foods, prebiotics & probiotics
27:55 –Mental health and mind-body therapy
Are you confused by some of the health food terms you hear about or read on labels such as 'Non-GMO', 'All Natural' or 'Superfood'? This podcast explains these 10 commonly used health food words:
0:40 - Non-GMO
2:00 - All Natural
2:35 - Superfood
5:15 - Grass Fed
6:00 - Grass Finished
6:30 - Whole Food
7:30 - Naturally Sweetened
8:45 - Pasture Raised
9:30 - Organic
11:30 - Macronutrients & Micronutrients
Event and party planning can feel overwhelming, especially if there are guests with food restrictions. From wedding receptions to conferences to birthday parties, what can you do to keep your guests safe? What is the role of the guest in communicating their food needs? What should parents of allergic children do when their child is invited to a birthday party? Instead of getting stressed, get insightful tips in this podcast from award winning event planner Jodie Katz and registered dietician Ahuva Magder.
If you’re interested in a primer about the health benefits and risks of cannabis, this is a podcast not to be missed. Host Tanya Allen interviews Dr. Danial Schecter, MD, a practicing family physician and co-founder of the Canabo Medical Clinic, and Stephanie Karasick, Founder & Chief Creative Officer at Strainprint Technologies. To help you navigate this informative podcast, here’s a breakdown:
-What’s the evidence? (0:03:30)
-Stephanie’s personal journey (0:5:40)
-Cannabis for the over 50 demographic (0:12:30)
-What physicians can learn (0:14:15)
-Alternatives to smoking cannabis (vaporizers, edibles, oils) & what is decarboxylation? (0:19:47)
-Risks of edibles (0:26:12)
-How to find the optimal dose and avoid unwanted side effects – “Start low, go slow” (28:00)
-Different reasons people use cannabis (0:35:05)
-About the cannabis plant, our endocannabinoid system and homeostasis (0:35:28)
-The difference between THC and CBD (0:38:20)
-Treatment resistant epilepsy in children and CBD oil (0:42:00)
-The stigma (0:42:35)
-Studies looking at cannabis as a treatment for chronic pain, anxiety, cancer symptoms, PTSD, multiple sclerosis (0:45:00)
-Cannabis as an opioid replacement (0:49:00)
-The high risk youth population (0:51:55)
-Cannabis education (0:54:45)
-More on the edibles market (1:00:00)
What is the emotional impact of living with food allergies? What are some coping strategies? In this podcast, registered dietician Ahuva Magder, and Natalie Rhone, Founder of the organization No Nuts 4 Me, discuss various emotional concerns for children and adults ranging from anxiety to bullying to feelings of isolation. Listen to this podcast, learn the true seriousness of food allergies, and empower yourself and your loved one to deal with them.
It might seem obvious that maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy is important. But, when those cravings and aversions set in or if you’re nauseous all the time, it may be challenging to get those additional nutrients, vitamins and minerals into your body. Also, while you may know in theory that it’s important to have a healthy diet during pregnancy, in practice, you may not be sure what are the best foods to eat while pregnant. In this podcast, you'll hear Dr. Audrey's list of the best foods to eat during pregnancy.
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a competitive athlete, this podcast will help to increase awareness of how to best fuel your body. Dr. Audrey interviews Olympic figure skater and vegan athlete Meagan Duhamel about the role of proper nutrition for both youth and adults in sport training and recovery.
Let’s cut to the chase – how’s your sex drive? Have you been wondering, “How do I improve my sex life?” Science shows it’s very common for libido to decrease as one ages. Food has often been used to increase performance and sexual desire in both men and women and in this podcast, Dr. Audrey talks about ten aphrodisiac foods and why they are natural libido boosters.
Are you a bit confused about the legal landscape regarding cannabis? Whether you are interested in producing, distributing or selling it or simply are curious about edibles, this podcast is for you.
Joining the podcast is Carlo Di Carlo, an associate at Stockwoods LLP, and John-David Belfontaine, President of Phivida Holdings Inc. The podcast begins with a discussion of the proposed cannabis legislation in Canada and the role of various levels of governments involved in its regulation. The anatomy of the cannabis plant is also explained to give listeners a better understanding of THC and CBD oil. And of course, since we are the Alternative Food Network, the middle of the podcast takes a deeper dive into the topic of cannabis infused food and beverages, including trends, advertising and accuracy of THC labelling.
Some acronyms in this podcast:
LCBO – Liquor Control Board of Ontario
LP – Licensed Producer
ACMPR – Access to Cannabis for Medical Purposes Regulations
TSX – Toronto Stock Exchange
CSE – Canadian Securities Exchange
No matter your age, it’s never too early or too late to start eating to support your brain function. In this podcast, Dr. Carol Greenwood, Ph.D., joins Dr. Audrey Sasson, ND, to discuss what foods we should be eating for brain health, what age should we start and whether we can actually repair our brains by changing our diet.
Did you know that oregano has 4x the antioxidant properties of blueberries? What are the best foods to eat when sick? If you are suffering from a cold or flu, you want relief. Even better, you want to avoid getting sick in the first place. In this podcast, hear Dr. Audrey’s top 10 list of immune-boosting and symptom soothing foods.
What is inflammation and is there a really a connection between food and chronic inflammation in our body? Are there inflammation-fighting foods? In this podcast, Dr. Audrey Sasson, ND, discusses what people can do about inflammation in the context of their diet. Some topics discussed are psoriasis, eczema, crohn’s, gut health, nightshade vegetable sensitivities, pre and probiotics, FODMAP and the Mediterranean diet. Plus, hear from a special drop-in guest, the founder of Alternative Food Network. Inflammation is a basis of a significant number of diseases so take the time to listen to this podcast and check out Dr. Audrey’s anti-inflammation Poached Salmon recipe on Alternative Food Network’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/alternativefoodnetwork.
Do you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep? Achieving quality sleep is essential for your well-being. This podcast discusses the importance of sleep for both adults and children, and how food can facilitate or hinder a good night's sleep. Hear great tips from Dr. Audrey Sasson, ND, about what foods are more relaxing to the body and what foods should be avoided in the evening. Get your day off to a great start by sleeping well the night before.
Help! My child can’t have gluten. This episode discusses what is gluten and what it can do to the body if a person is sensitive to gluten or has celiac disease. Alternative Food Network's guest Dr. Audrey Sasson, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, presents great substitution ideas for child-friendly gluten-free school and camp lunches.
Are you struggling making lunches for your kids? What should kids have for lunch and snacks to have a well-balanced diet? How do you get your picky eater to eat? How bad are sugar sweetened drinks for kids? What are alternatives to white sugar for baking? Tune in to find out some great information and tips from Alternative Food Network's guest Dr. Audrey Sasson, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, to assist you with preparing school and camp lunches.