Diet Science: Recent Episodes
Dee and Michael McCaffrey
Diet Science is a fun 7 to 8 minute weekly program with insights and straight scoops on today’s health and diet issues from Dee McCaffrey, CDC. Dee is an Organic Chemist who lost 100 pounds, nearly half her body weight, and has kept it off for 20 years by staying away from processed foods. She’s the author of The Science of Skinny, released by Perseus June 2012, and The Science of Skinny Cookbook, which was released December 2014.
Often mistaken for Type 2 diabetes, Type 1.5 diabetes, also known as Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA), is an autoimmune form of diabetes that develops gradually in adulthood. Listen in this week as Dee explains what makes LADA unique, why it is so often misdiagnosed, and how understanding insulin, insulin resistance, proper diagnosis, and a nutrient-dense diet can empower you to take charge of your health.
Reference:
Ravikumar, V., Ahmed, A., & Anjankar, A. (2023). A review on Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults. Cureus, 15(10), e47915. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.47915
The post Type 1.5 Diabetes – The Diabetes Many People Don’t Know They Have first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Encased in a black shell that resembles a minature avocado lies the powerful pili nut, a type of tropical tree nut indigenous to the Philippines. Listen in this week as Dee delves into the nutritional profile of this amazing tropical nut and why you may want to make it your next pantry staple.
Reference:
Millena, C. G., & Sagum, R. S. (2018). Philippine pili (Canarium ovatum, Engl.) varieties as source of essential minerals and trace elements in human nutrition. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, 69, 53–61. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfca.2018.02.008
The post The Power of Pili Nuts first appeared on Processed-Free America.
This week, Dee dives into the recently released Environmental Working Group’s 2025 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce, commonly known as “The Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen Lists”, with a spotlight on blackberries—a new addition to the Dirty Dozen list, coming in at number ten. Listen in as Dee explains why blackberries made the list for the first time this year, and delves into all the items on both the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 List to help you make safer, cleaner decisions for your plate and your health.
References:
Blackberries: Dirty Dozen newcomer. (2025, June 11). Environmental Working Group. https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/blackberries.php?
Get a downloadable copy of the EWG’s 2025 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce (Dirty Dozen & Clean 15 List): https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/
The post Berry Dirty: Why Blackberries Made the 2025 Dirty Dozen first appeared on Processed-Free America.
In a groundbreaking new study, researchers have developed a blood and urine test capable of identifying how much ultra-processed food is in your diet. By analyzing metabolites—chemicals produced as the body breaks down food—researchers can now distinguish between individuals who consume high amounts of ultra-processed foods and those who eat little to none. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the details of this study and how the test works, what it means for the future of nutrition research and personalized nutrition, and how it could help guide healthier food choices.
Reference:
Abar, L., Steele, E. M., Lee, S. K., Kahle, L., Moore, S. C., Watts, E., O’Connell, C. P., Matthews, C. E., Herrick, K. A., Hall, K. D., O’Connor, L. E., Freedman, N. D., Sinha, R., Hong, H. G., & Loftfield, E. (2025). Identification and validation of poly-metabolite scores for diets high in ultra-processed food: An observational study and post-hoc randomized controlled crossover-feeding trial. PLoS Medicine, 22(5), e1004560. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1004560
The post New Blood Test Can Reveal Your Ultra-Processed Food Intake first appeared on Processed-Free America.
From its impressive nutritional profile to its role in blood sugar balance and gut health, sorghum just might be the next superfood you’ve never heard of. Listen in this week as Dee digs into the ancient grain that’s quietly stealing the spotlight in modern nutrition. Whether you’re curious about how to cook it, bake with it, or just want to diversify your plate—Dee lays it all out for you.
Reference:
Stefoska-Needham A. (2024). Sorghum and health: An overview of potential protective health effects. Journal of Food Science, 89(S1), A30–A41. https://doi.org/10.1111/1750-3841.16978
The post Sorghum: The Supergrain Hiding in Plain Sight first appeared on Processed-Free America.
The results of a new study shows that consumption of polyphenols in certain foods–known as methyl adaptogens–can turn back your biological clock. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the study and reveals the short list of common foods that literally help you age better from the inside out.
Reference:
Villanueva, J. L., Vita, A. A., Zwickey, H., Fitzgerald, K., Hodges, R., Zimmerman, B., & Bradley, R. (2025). Dietary associations with reduced epigenetic age: a secondary data analysis of the methylation diet and lifestyle study. Aging. https://doi.org/10.18632/aging.206240
The post Methyl Adaptogens: Your New Anti-Aging Dream Team first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study shows that a specific blend of cocoa and carob powder improves metabolic health markers in people with Type 2 diabetes. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the study, the specific ratio of cocoa to carob used in the study, and how this delicious duo offers a new strategy for supporting blood sugar balance.
Reference:
Villalva, M., García-Díez, E., Del Carmen López De Las Hazas, M., Lo Iacono, O., Vicente-Díez, J. I., García-Cabrera, S., Alonso-Bernáldez, M., Dávalos, A., Martín, M. Á., Ramos, S., & Pérez-Jiménez, J. (2025). Cocoa-carob blend acute intake modifies miRNAs related to insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetic subjects: A randomised trial. Food & Function, 2025(8), 3211–3226. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/fo/d4fo04498c
The post Cocoa and Carob: A Sweet Duo for Managing Diabetes first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Groundbreaking new research challenges conventional beliefs about cholesterol and heart disease. A one-year prospective study of 100 metabolically healthy adults following a long-term ketogenic diet found no correlation between extremely high LDL cholesterol and the progression of coronary artery disease. Listen in this week as Dee explains the study, the importance of personalized risk assessment, why cardiac imaging might matter more than cholesterol levels alone, and what this means for patients, practitioners, and the future of cardiovascular health.
Reference:
Soto-Mota, A., Norwitz, N. G., Manubolu, V. S., Kinninger, A., Wood, T. R., Earls, J., Feldman, D., & Budoff, M. (2025). Plaque begets plaque, ApoB does not. JACC Advances, 101686. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacadv.2025.101686
The post Can You Be Healthy with High Cholesterol? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
If you’re struggling with fatigue, chronic constiptation, weight gain, or weight loss resistance, an underactive thyroid could be the hidden cause. Listen in this week as Dee explains how the thyroid gland plays a big part in regulating metabolism, digestion, and energy, and the role of diet and lifestyle in treating the root cause of thyroid hormone imbalance.
Work with Dee: https://deemccaffrey.com/
The post Thyroid Signals: What Your Body’s Symptoms Are Really Saying first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Beef tallow, aka rendered beef fat, was once a staple in American home cooking and fast-food kitchens throughout much of the 20th century. Though it declined in popularity due to concerns over its saturated fat content, it’s now making a comeback. Listen in this week as Dee breaks down the sizzling truth about beef tallow—its nutritional perks, potential pitfalls, and whether it earns a spot in a healthy diet.
Reference:
Limmatvapirat, C. (2020). Beef tallow consumption and health. The Journal of Chulabhorn Royal Academy, 1(2), 16–34. https://he02.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/jcra/article/view/222030
The post Talkin’ Tallow: Is This Rendered Beef Fat Good for Your Health? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
In March 2011, Processed-Free America (aka Center for Processed-Free Living) submitted arguments against artificial food coloring to the United States Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. Now, 14 years later, the country is starting to pay attention. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the recent ban on 7 food dyes in West Virginia, and similar proposed bans in 23 other states. She explores the science behind artificial colorings, the potential effects on behavior and health that led to this decision, and tips on how to avoid artificial colors in your diet.
References:
Link to Processed-Free America’s arguments against artificial food colors: https://processedfreeamerica.org/center-submits-arguments-against-artificial-food-coloring/
Rogers, K. (2025, March 29). Over half of US states are trying to eliminate food dyes. Here’s what you can do now. CNN Health. https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/29/health/food-dye-bans-states-wellness/index.html
Here’s the link to Dee’s book The Science of Skinny (the chapter she was referring to is Chapter 7: Food Chemistry Gone Mad): https://amzn.to/426Bwdu
The post Longtime Efforts to Ban Artificial Food Dyes & Preservatives Finally Coming to Fruition! first appeared on Processed-Free America.
The FDA required food manufacturers to remove artificial trans fats from their products by June 18, 2018, due to their negative impact on health. Despite the ban, consumers should still be cautious of foods containing trans fats due to ingredients like mono- and diglycerides, which are not regulated as trans fats. Listen in this week as Dee discusses what mono- and diglycerides are, and why they are a concern for your health.
References:
Kalmus, S. (n.d.). What is bad about mono- & diglycerides? Livestrong.com. https://www.livestrong.com/article/445850-what-is-bad-about-mono-diglycerides/
Sellem, L., Srour, B., Javaux, G., Chazelas, E., Chassaing, B., Viennois, É., Debras, C., Salamé, C., Druesne-Pecollo, N., Esseddik, Y., De Edelenyi, F. S., Agaësse, C., De Sa, A., Lutchia, R., Louveau, E., Huybrechts, I., Pierre, F. H., Coumoul, X., Fezeu, L. K., . . . Touvier, M. (2023). Food additive emulsifiers and risk of cardiovascular disease in the NutriNet-Santé cohort: Prospective cohort study. BMJ, 382, e076058. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj-2023-076058
The post Mono and Diglycerides: Unmasking the Hidden Trans Fats in Your Food first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Apeel is an edible coating made of fatty acids that is used on apples and other produce, both conventional and organically grown, designed to extend their shelf life, but there’s no label on the produce to let you know it’s there. How concerned should you be? Listen in this week as Dee discusses what Apeel is, why the fatty acids it’s made of may be a concern, and where you can find produce not coated with Apeel.
References:
Apeel. (2024). Product information. https://www.apeel.com/product-information
Cornucopia Institute. (2023, August 9). Apeel and edible coatings: Your questions answered. https://www.cornucopia.org/2023/07/apeel-and-edible-coatings-your-questions-answered/
Get the free Apeel Wallet Guide: https://greensmoothiegirl.com/apeel/
The post Apeel On Your Produce May Not Be Appealing! first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A recent study found that dark chocolate and other cocoa products are contaminated with lead and cadmium, two neurotoxic metals associated with cancer, chronic diseases, and reproductive or developmental issues, especially in children. Surprisingly, even organic dark chocolate, grown with fewer pesticides, was found to have some of the highest concentrations of these harmful metals. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of the study and whether it’s still possible to enjoy the health benefits of dark chocolate.
References:
Hands, J. M., Anderson, M. L., Cooperman, T., Balsky, J. E., & Frame, L. A. (2024). A multi-year heavy metal analysis of 72 dark chocolate and cocoa products in the USA. Frontiers in Nutrition, 11. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1366231/full
The post The Dark Side of Dark Chocolate: Heavy Metals in Your Favorite Brands first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new review study involving over 55,000 people showed that those who chose specific foods while following a Mediterranean Style Diet were less likely to contract Covid-19. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of the study and which foods were the most effective at warding off the virus.
References:
Halim, C., Howen, M., Fitrisubroto, A. a. N. B., Pratama, T., Harahap, I. R., Ganesh, L. J., & Siahaan, A. M. P. (2024). Relevance of Mediterranean diet as a nutritional strategy in diminishing COVID-19 risk: A systematic review. PLoS ONE, 19(8), e0301564. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0301564
The post Study Shows Mediterranean Diet May Reduce Your Risk of Covid-19 first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A recent study suggests that a low-fat vegan diet is more effective than a Mediterranean diet for reducing inflammation and promoting weight loss. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the methodology and results of the study, and what they mean for your health.
References:
Kahleova, H., Znayenko-Miller, T., Motoa, G., Eng, E., Prevost, A., Uribarri, J., Holubkov, R., & Barnard, N. D. (2024). Dietary advanced glycation end-products and their associations with body weight on a Mediterranean diet and low-fat vegan diet: A randomized, cross-over trial. Frontiers in Nutrition, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2024.1426642
The post Does the Vegan Diet Outshine the Mediterranean Diet for Weight Loss and Cardiovascular Health? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Advanced Glycation End Products (AGEs) are harmful compounds lurking in everyday foods that have been linked to inflammation, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease. Listen in this week as Dee explains what foods AGE’s are found in and how you can avoid their harmful effects.
References:
Uribarri, J., Woodruff, S., Goodman, S., Cai, W., Chen, X., Pyzik, R., Yong, A., Striker, G. E., & Vlassara, H. (2010). Advanced glycation end products in foods and a practical guide to their reduction in the diet. Journal of the American Dietetic Association, 110(6), 911–16.e12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3704564/
The post The AGE Conundrum: Are Your Favorite Foods Harming You? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Erythritol is a common sweetener used in baked goods, beverages, gum, and candy, and is often found in keto-friendly and other reduced-sugar products. However, recent research suggests that consuming even typical amounts of erythritol may elevate the risk of blood clots and cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes. Listen in this week as Dee explores the findings of this study and why erythritol might not be the safest option for reducing sugar intake.
References:
Cleveland Clinic. (2024, August 8). Cleveland Clinic study adds to increasing evidence that sugar substitute erythritol raises cardiovascular risk. https://newsroom.clevelandclinic.org/2024/08/08/cleveland-clinic-study-adds-to-increasing-evidence-that-sugar-substitute-erythritol-raises-cardiovascular-risk
Witkowski, M., Wilcox, J., Province, V., Wang, Z., Nemet, I., Tang, W. W., & Hazen, S. L. (2024). Ingestion of the non-nutritive sweetener erythritol, but not glucose, enhances platelet reactivity and thrombosis potential in healthy volunteers. Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology. https://doi.org/10.1161/atvbaha.124.321019. Retrieved from https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/epdf/10.1161/ATVBAHA.124.321019
The post Recent Study Sparks New Concerns that Erythritol Increases Risk for Heart Attacks and Strokes first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association explores the effects of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) on cholesterol and heart health. Researchers found that both high and low usage of EVOO in the diet were linked to reductions in LDL-C, the “bad” cholesterol associated with heart disease. But during a 4-week carryover period, an interesting twist was revealed. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the results of the study, it’s pros and cons, and how it could impact your health.
Reference:
Krenek, A. M., Mathews, A., Guo, J., Courville, A. B., Pepine, C. J., Chung, S. T., & Aggarwal, M. (2024). Recipe for heart health: A randomized crossover trial on cardiometabolic effects of extra virgin olive oil within a whole‐food plant‐based vegan diet. Journal of the American Heart Association, 13(15), e035034. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/JAHA.124.035034
The post Heart Health & EVOO: Why Less May Be More first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Monch Monch is a revolutionary, tasteless powder that you mix with water before meals to block sugar absorption and minimize insulin and glucose spikes from refined carbs. But does it really work? Listen in this week as Dee explains what Monch Monch is, how it impacts your health, and whether it’s right for you.
Learn more about Monch Monch: https://www.monchmonch.shop/pages/science
The post Monch Monch: An Innovative Biohack to Reduce the Impact of Sugar Consumption first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study reveals how the frequency of your bowel movements could be an important indicator of your long-term health. Infrequent poopers showed signs of decreased kidney function, while those who went more often than average exhibited signs of impaired liver function. Listen in this week as Dee explains why the type and frequency of your bowel movements can affect your health well beyond the gut.
References:
Johnson-Martínez, J. P., Diener, C., Levine, A. E., Wilmanski, T., Suskind, D. L., Ralevski, A., Hadlock, J., Magis, A. T., Hood, L., Rappaport, N., & Gibbons, S. M. (2024). Aberrant bowel movement frequencies coincide with increased microbe-derived blood metabolites associated with reduced organ function. Cell Reports Medicine, 5(7), 101646. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101646
The post Gut Check: The Surprising Health Impacts of How Often You Poop first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Saccharomyces boulardii is a strain of probiotic yeast that was first isolated from the superfoods mangosteen and lychee fruit in 1923 by the French scientist Henri Boulard (hence the name). Today it is considered a “super probiotic” due to its unique properties and wide range of health benefits that set it apart from many other probiotic strains. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the key reasons why S. boulardii holds this distinction.
Link to Saccharomyces boulardii supplement: https://amzn.to/4cVqkVu
References:
Kaźmierczak-Siedlecka, K., Ruszkowski, J., Fic, M., Folwarski, M., & Makarewicz, W. (2020). Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745: A non-bacterial microorganism used as probiotic agent in supporting treatment of selected diseases. Current Microbiology, 77(9), 1987–1996. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00284-020-02053-9
The post S. Boulardii Hailed as a “Super Probiotic” first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Studies show that obese individuals have more Firmicutes and fewer Bacteroidetes in their gut bacteria compared to those who are not overweight. Research suggests that consuming apple cider vinegar (ACV) can help improve this ratio. Listen in this week as Dee explains ACV’s impact on the gut microbiome and its role in weight loss.
Link to Dee’s Apple Cider Vinaigrette recipe: https://processedfreeamerica.org/dees-olive-oil-apple-cider-vinaigrette/
References:
Bouderbala, H., Dib, W., Kheroua, O., Saidi, D., & Kaddouri, H. (2019). Modulation of the intestinal microbiota by apple cider vinegar in rats subjected to cafeteria diet. Archives of Cardiovascular Diseases Supplements,11(3), e373-e374.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.acvdsp.2019.05.102
Davis C. D. (2016). The gut microbiome and its role in obesity. Nutrition Today, 51(4), 167-174.
https://doi.org/10.1097/NT.0000000000000167
The post Gut Health Revolution: Apple Cider Vinegar’s Role in Weight Loss first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) is a harmful compound produced by gut bacteria. Elevated TMAO levels can significantly influence the development of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, chronic kidney disease, cancer, and fatty liver disease. Listen in this week as Dee explains which foods increase the production of TMAO in the gut, and how you can optimize the health of your gut.
References:
Li, X. S., Obeid, S., Klingenberg, R., Gencer, B., Mach, F., Räber, L., Windecker, S., Rodondi, N., Nanchen, D., Muller, O., Miranda, M. X., Matter, C. M., Wu, Y., Li, L., Wang, Z., Alamri, H. S., Gogonea, V., Chung, Y. M., Tang, W. H., Hazen, S. L., … Lüscher, T. F. (2017). Gut microbiota-dependent trimethylamine N-oxide in acute coronary syndromes: a prognostic marker for incident cardiovascular events beyond traditional risk factors. European Heart Journal, 38(11), 814–824. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehw582
Shan, Z., Sun, T., Huang, H., Chen, S., Chen, L., Luo, C., Yang, W., Yang, X., Yao, P., Cheng, J., Hu, F. B., & Liu, L. (2017). Association between microbiota-dependent metabolite trimethylamine-N-oxide and type 2 diabetes. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 106(3), 888–894. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.117.157107
The post A Newly Discovered Dietary Hazard: TMAO first appeared on Processed-Free America.
The term “planetary health” refers to the natural systems that are essential for the health and survival of the human population. A commission of leading scientists from 16 countries have developed a “flexitarian” type diet designed to optimize human health and environmental sustainability on Earth. Listen in this week as Dee explains the parameters of the Planetary Health Diet and how it can improve your health.
Reference:
Healthy diets from sustainable food systems: Summary report of the EAT-Lancet Commission. (n.d.). https://eatforum.org/content/uploads/2019/07/EAT-Lancet_Commission_Summary_Report.pdf
The post Exploring the Planetary Health Diet first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A study examining ancient mummies from various countries revealed that one-third of them had atherosclerosis (plaques in the arteries), a precursor to heart disease, regardless of following Paleo-type or Mediterranean-type diets. This ratio mirrors what we see in modern populations. Listen in this week as Dee uncovers how we can harness the power of diet to overcome our genetic predispositions and lead healthier, heart-friendly lives.
Reference:
Thompson, R. C., Allam, A. H., Lombardi, G. P., Wann, L. S., Sutherland, M. L., Sutherland, J. D., Soliman, M. A.-T., Frohlich, B., Mininberg, D. T., Monge, J. M., Vallodolid, C. M., Cox, S. L., Abd el-Maksoud, G., Badr, I., Miyamoto, M. I., el-Halim Nur el-din, A., Narula, J., Finch, C. E., & Thomas, G. S. (2013). Atherosclerosis across 4000 years of human history: The horus study of four ancient populations. The Lancet, 381(9873), 1211–1222. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0140-6736(13)60598-x
The post Heart Matters: Unraveling Diet, Genes, and Cardiovascular Health first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study shows that a high-fat diet suppresses the expression of a protein called Jak3, which causes a cascade of inflammation that starts in the intestine, moves through the liver and on to the brain, ultimately causing Alzheimer’s-like symptoms. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the results of this study and what it means for your health.
References:
Kumar, N., Mishra, J., Morales, R., & Kumar, P. (2024). Kinases in Gut-Liver-brain communication and neuroinflammation. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 300(3), 106750. https://www.jbc.org/article/S0021-9258(24)01223-7/fulltext
The post New Study Explains Why Alzheimer’s is Being Called “Type 3 Diabetes” first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone naturally produced in the intestines during meals. It helps regulate blood sugar and weight by increasing insulin, slowing stomach emptying, and promoting fullness. Medications like Ozempic® and Wegovy® mimic the effects of GLP-1 but can be expensive and have unpleasant side effects. Listen in this week as Dee explores research on foods and probiotics that naturally boost GLP-1, offering similar benefits without the high costs and side effects.
References:
De Silva, A., & Bloom, S. R. (2012). Gut hormones and appetite control: A focus on PYY and GLP-1 as therapeutic targets in obesity. Gut and Liver, 6(1), 10–20. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3286726/
Hira, T., Trakooncharoenvit, A., Taguchi, H.;,Hara, H. (2021). Improvement of glucose tolerance by food factors having glucagon-like peptide-1 releasing activity. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22(12), 6623. https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/22/12/6623
Perraudeau, F., McMurdie, P., Bullard, J., Cheng, A., Cutcliffe, C., Deo, A., Eid, J., Gines, J., Iyer, M., Justice, N., Loo, W. T., Nemchek, M., Schicklberger, M., Souza, M., Stoneburner, B., Tyagi, S., & Kolterman, O. (2020). Improvements to postprandial glucose control in subjects with type 2 diabetes: A multicenter, double blind, randomized placebo-controlled trial of a novel probiotic formulation. BMJ Open Diabetes Research and Care, 8(1), e001319. https://drc.bmj.com/content/8/1/e001319
Link to purchase GLP-1 Probiotic: https://pendulumlife.com/products/glp-1-probiotic
The post Natural Ways to Boost GLP-1 Without the Drugs first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A study published in the British medical journal BMJ pooled data from 14 studies involving nearly 10 million people to look at connections between consumption of ultra-processed foods and various health outcomes. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of this massive study and what it means for your health.
Reference:
Lane, M. M., Gamage, E., Du, S., Ashtree, D. N., McGuinness, A. J., Gauci, S., Baker, P., Lawrence, M., Rebholz, C. M., Srour, B., Touvier, M., Jacka, F. N., O’Neil, A., Segasby, T., & Marx, W. (2024). Ultra-processed food exposure and adverse health outcomes: Umbrella review of epidemiological meta-analyses. BMJ,384, e077310. https://www.bmj.com/content/384/bmj-2023-077310
The post Comprehensive New Study Presents Strongest Evidence Yet Linking Processed Foods with Chronic Disease first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Gugulipid, also known as gum guggul, is an extract of the resin from a West Indian tree that has documented cholesterol lowering properties. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the specific compounds in gugulipid that decrease elevated cholesterol and triglycerides, and the proper way to take this effective supplement.
References: Urizar, N. L., & Moore, D. D. (2003). Guguglipd: A natural cholesterol-lowering agent. Annual Review of Nutrition, 23, 303–313. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.nutr.23.011702.073102
Link to Guggul Supplement (2 capsules per day provides 75 mg guggulsterone*): https://amzn.to/3UWZDI0
The post Gugulipid (Guggul): A Natural Way to Lower Cholesterol first appeared on Processed-Free America.
In a recent study, researchers found that the diet of some ancient hunter-gatherers primarily ate plant foods, including beans and grains, with only a small percentage of meat in their diet. This new understanding contrasts with the meat-centric modern Paleo diet. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of the study, and what it means for your health.
References:
Moubtahij, Z., McCormack, J., Bourgon, N., Trost, M., Sinet-Mathiot, V., Fuller, B. T., Smith, G. M., Temming, H., Steinbrenner, S., Hublin, J.-J., Bouzouggar, A., Turner, E., & Jaouen, K. (2024). Isotopic evidence of high reliance on plant food among later Stone age hunter-gatherers at Taforalt, Morocco. Nature Ecology & Evolution, 8(5), 1035–1045. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41559-024-02382-z
The post Plants Over Meat: New Study Reveals What Our Ancestors Really Ate first appeared on Processed-Free America.
In a recent study, researchers found that the diet of some ancient hunter-gatherers primarily ate plant foods, including beans and grains, with only a small percentage of meat in their diet. This new understanding contrasts with the meat-centric modern Paleo diet. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of the study, and what it means for your health.
References:
Moubtahij, Z., McCormack, J., Bourgon, N., Trost, M., Sinet-Mathiot, V., Fuller, B. T., Smith, G. M., Temming, H., Steinbrenner, S., Hublin, J.-J., Bouzouggar, A., Turner, E., & Jaouen, K. (2024). Isotopic evidence of high reliance on plant food among later Stone age hunter-gatherers at Taforalt, Morocco. Nature Ecology & Evolution, 8(5), 1035–1045. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41559-024-02382-z
The post Plants Over Meat: New Study Reveals What Our Ancestors Really Ate first appeared on Processed-Free America.
HDL is an acronym for “high-density lipoproteins”–compounds made in the body that are considered the “good guys” in the cholesterol game. They help to keep the “bad cholesterol” from building up and forming plaque in the arteries. Having high levels of HDL reduces the risk for both heart disease and stroke. Listen in this week as Dee elevates your understanding of cholesterol and explores natural strategies to boost your HDL levels.
References:
Stadler, J. T., & Marsche, G. (2021). Dietary strategies to improve cardiovascular health: Focus on increasing high-density lipoprotein functionality. Frontiers in Nutrition, 8. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnut.2021.761170/full
The post High on HDL: Elevating Good Cholesterol Naturally first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Bergamot, a citrus fruit hailing from the groves of southern Italy’s Calabria region, has been shown in clinical trials to lower bad cholesterol and triglycerides, and increase good cholesterol. Listen in in this week as Dee discusses the results of clinical studies using bergamot and the virtues of this super fruit.
Reference:
Lamiquiz-Moneo, I., Giné-González, J., Alisente, S., Bea, A. M., Pérez-Calahorra, S., Marco-Benedí, V., … Mateo-Gallego, R. (2020). Effect of bergamot on lipid profile in humans: A systematic review. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 60(18), 3133–3143. https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2019.1677554
Link to purchase Bergamot: https://amzn.to/3wwO9mf
The post Citrus Bergamot: a Cardiovascular Super Hero first appeared on Processed-Free America.
In 2015 a research team at UC Riverside found that soybean oil consumption induces obesity, diabetes, insulin resistance, and fatty liver in mice. Now, a new study by the same team shows that oil could also affect genes in the brain related to conditions like autism, Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, and depression. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the details of this study and how the changes in microbiome caused by soybean oil consumption are linked to negative iimpact on brain function.
Reference:
Martinez-Lomeli, J., Deol, P., Deans, J. R., Jiang, T., Ruegger, P., Borneman, J., & Sladek, F. M. (2023). Impact of various high fat diets on gene expression and the microbiome across the mouse intestines. Scientific Reports, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-023-49555-7
The post Study Shows Soybean Oil Consumption Linked to Diabetes and Negative Impact on Brain Health first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A recent study conducted at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center showed that patients with a history of colorectal cancer who added a cup of navy beans daily to their regular meals saw positive changes in their gut microbiome after just 4 weeks. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the details of this study and how the changes in microbiome aid in colorectal cancer prevention and treatment.
Reference:
Zhang, X., Irajizad, E., Hoffman, K. L., Fahrmann, J. F., Li, F., Seo, Y. D., Browman, G. J., Dennison, J. B., Vykoukal, J., Luna, P. N., Siu, W., Wu, R., Murage, E., Ajami, N. J., Mcquade, J. L., Wargo, J. A., Long, J. P., Do, K.-A., Lampe, J. W., … Daniel, C. R.. (2023). Modulating a prebiotic food source influences inflammation and immune-regulating gut microbes and metabolites: Insights from the BE GONE trial. Ebiomedicine, 98, 104873. https://www.thelancet.com/journals/ebiom/article/PIIS2352-3964(23)00439-5/fulltext
The post A Cup of Navy Beans a Day Keeps the Colorectal Cancer Away first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Autophagy is a natural biochemical self-preservation process whereby the body cleans out damaged cells in order to regenerate newer, healthier cells. There are certain diet and lifestyle factors that aid or inhibit autophagy, leading either to improved health or accelerated degeneration. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the mechanisms of autophagy and the best ways to ensure its optimal benefits.
Reference:
Aman, Y., Schmauck-Medina, T., Hansen, M., Morimoto, R. I., Simon, A. K., Bjedov, I., Palikaras, K., Simonsen, A., Johansen, T., Tavernarakis, N., Rubinsztein, D. C., Partridge, L., Kroemer, G., Labbadia, J., & Fang, E. F. (2021). Autophagy in healthy aging and disease. Nature Aging, 1(8), 634–650. https://www.nature.com/articles/s43587-021-00098-4#
The post How Autophagy Keeps You Healthy first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Buckwheat honey is a type of honey produced by bees that collect nectar solely from the flowers of the buckwheat plant. This gives the honey a unique flavor and much higher antioxidant levels than clover or other types of honey. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the many unique health benefits of buckwheat honey!
Link to purchase buckwheat honey: https://amzn.to/4apKkhr
The post What is Buckwheat Honey? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), or an irregular heartbeat, is a condition that can lead to stroke, heart failure, and blood clots. A new study has found that drinking diet sodas puts you at a 20% higher risk for AFib. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the results of the study, and how much diet soda per week poses the highest risk.
Reference:
Sun, Y., Yu, B., Yu, Y., Wang, B., Tan, X., Lu, Y., Wang, Y., Zhang, K., & Wang, N. (2024). Sweetened beverages, genetic susceptibility, and incident atrial fibrillation: A Prospective cohort study. Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology, 17(3). https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCEP.123.012145
The post New Study Links Artificially Sweetened Sodas with a 20% increase in Atrial Fibrillation Risk. first appeared on Processed-Free America.
The Environmental Working Group’s 2024 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce (aka the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 List) was released on March 20, 2024, and the results are shocking! Listen in this week as Dee talks about the list, what it means for your health, and how to strategize your grocery budget to ensure the least amount of pesticide exposure.
Get the Guide at https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/
The post EWG’s 2024 Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 List is Here! first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A recent study shines light on the profound impact of diet on chronic pain. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of the study, and the strong undercurrent of desire among chronic pain sufferers to adopt healthier eating practices.
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Reference:
Dong, H. J., Brain, K., Olsson, M., Dragioti, E., Gerdle, B., & Ghafouri, B. (2024). Eating habits and the desire to eat healthier among patients with chronic pain: A registry-based study. Scientific Reports, 14(1), 4705. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10897138/
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Video Link: Dee Talks About Nutrition Changes for Gout: https://processedfreeamerica.org/dee-talks-about-gout/
The post Unlocking the Link Between Diet and Chronic Pain: A Call for Healthier Habits first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Following a decision by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), yogurt manufacturers in the United States will now be allowed to state on their labels that yogurt may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. Listen in this week as Dee discusses which type of yogurt qualifies, and why eating yogurt may help with blood sugar control.Reference:U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2024, March 1) FDA announces health claim for yogurt and reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. https://www.fda.gov/food/cfsan-constituent-updates/fda-announces-qualified-health-claim-yogurt-and-reduced-risk-type-2-diabetes The post FDA Announces Qualified Health Claim for Yogurt and Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes first appeared on Processed-Free America.
As its name suggests, the Fasting Mimicking Diet (FMD) is a dietary approach that provides the same health benefits typically seen with water-only fasting, but you still get to eat! Listen in this week as Dee discusses the FMD and a recent study showing that following the FMD for just 5 days a month could wind back your interal clock nearly three years..Reference:Brandhorst, S., Levine, M. E., Wei, M., Shelehchi, M., Morgan, T. E., Nayak, K. S., Dorff, T., Hong, K., Crimmins, E. M., Cohen, P., & Longo, V. D.. (2024). Fasting-mimicking diet causes hepatic and blood markers changes indicating reduced biological age and disease risk. Nature Communications, 15(1). https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-45260-9.The post How the “Fasting Mimicking Diet” Lowers Biological Age first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study adds wasabi to the list of foods that show significant improvement in both working and episodic memory. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the study and what you need to know about sources of wasabi.
Reference:
Nouchi, R., Kawata, N. Y. S., Saito, T., Nouchi, H., & Kawashima, R.. (2023). Benefits of wasabi supplements with 6-MSITC (6-methylsulfinyl hexyl isothiocyanate) on memory functioning in healthy adults aged 60 years and older: Evidence from a double-blinded randomized controlled trial. Nutrients, 15(21), 4608. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15214608
Link to Wasabi supplement:
https://realwasabi.com/products/nutrasabi-pure-wasabi?pr_prod_strat=e5_desc≺_rec_id=b3c59c575≺_rec_pid=7159750426789≺_ref_pid=7222982082725≺_seq=uniform
The post Study Shows Wasabi Help Impove Memory first appeared on Processed-Free America.
The parsnip is a humble root vegetable that is highly underrated. Listen in this week as Dee discusses their rich nutritional profile, health benefits and why parsnips deserve a prime spot on your plate..Reference:Kenari, H. M., Kordafshari, G., Moghimi, M., Eghbalian, F., & TaherKhani, D. (2021). Review of pharmacological properties and chemical constituents of Pastinaca sativa. Journal of Pharmacopuncture, 24(1), 14–23. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8010426/.Link to Parsnip Recipes: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/parsnip-recipes.The post Health Benefits of Parsnips first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A recent study evaluated over 2,000 fish oil supplements and found that the variable doses suggested on product labels are typically much lower than the doses used in studies that associate fish oil benefits for heart, brain and joint health. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the results of this study and what the optimal doses of fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids are.
Reference:
Assadourian, J. N., Peterson, E. D., McDonald, S. A., Gupta, A., & Navar, A. M. (2023). Health claims and doses of fish oil supplements in the US. JAMA cardiology, e232424. Advance online publication. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37610733/
Link to purchase fish oil:https://amzn.to/3ZaAqf0
The post Are You Taking the Right Dose of Fish Oil? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study shows that the majority of dairy farmers in Ireland use a pasture based, grass-fed feeding system that produces milk with significantly higher levels of 4 key nutrients compared to grass-fed dairy cows in the U.S. and other countries. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the results of this study and why Irish butter really is better.
Reference:
Timlin, M., Fitzpatrick, E., McCarthy, K., Tobin, J. T., Murphy, E. G., Pierce, K. M., Murphy, J. P., Hennessy, D., O’Donovan, M., Harbourne, N., Brodkorb, A., & O’Callaghan, T. F. (2023). Impact of varying levels of pasture allowance on the nutritional quality and functionality of milk throughout lactation. Journal of Dairy Science. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022030223004332
Link to purchase irish butter: https://amzn.to/3PnnnDI
Link to purchase irish cheese: https://amzn.to/3PoA29l
The post Irish Butter Really is a Better Butter! first appeared on Processed-Free America.
The medical term “fatty liver disease” is getting a new name as terminology adapts to better reflect the symptoms of the disease and becomes more sensitive to patient experiences. The …
The post Fatty Liver Disease Gets a New Name first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A recent study investigating the effect of three different concentrations of green tea in the diet showed better gut health and more weight loss in the group consuming the highest …
The post The Green Tea Effect: How this Common Beverage Regulates Gut Health and Combating Obesity first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Brands of soda like Olipop and Poppi are the latest in a line of food and beverage products called “functional foods” that have added ingredients purported to improve health. Listen …
The post Does Soda with Added Prebiotics Boost Your Gut Health? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
The MIND Diet was originally developed to help older adults stave off dementia and keep their minds sharp. Now a new study shows that this brain-healtlhy approach to eating can …
The post Brain-healthy MIND Diet Helps Kids Focus Better in School first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Omega-3’s are well known for reducing risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer, but their role in chronic lung disease has not been well studied until now. Listen in this week …
The post Study Shows Strong Evidence that Omega-3’s Improve Lung Health first appeared on Processed-Free America.
The American Medical Association has adopted a new policy on the use of Body Mass Index (BMI) alone for assessment of disease risk, noting significant limitations associated with widespread use …
The post American Medical Association’s Shifts its Policy on use of Body Mass Index as Predictor of Disease Risk first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Aspartame, an artificial sweetener used in many diet sodas, sugar-free products, and sold in blue packets under the name “Equal”, has now been classified by the World Health Organization as …
The post Aspartame is “Possibly Carcinogenic to Humans” according to the World Health Organization first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Carotenes are a class of plant-compounds found in brightly colored fruits and vegetables. Listen in this week as Dee discusses a new study that links high amounts of carotenes in …
The post Carotene-Rich Diet Prevents Clogged Arteries first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Allulose is a relatively “new” sweetener on the market that has been shown in studies to promote weight loss and lower blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. But …
The post Allulose Has Sweet Benefits for Weight Loss and Blood Sugar Control first appeared on Processed-Free America.
New research published in the journal Science has found that a deficiency of taurine, an amino acid involved in immune and neurological funtion, is a driver of aging. Increasing intake …
The post Taurine Could be the Elixer For a Longer and Healthier LIfe first appeared on Processed-Free America.
“Maple Butter” (also called “Maple Cream”) is a form of pure maple syrup that is spreadable—but there is no actual butter, cream, or anything else in it other than the …
The post Maple Butter: What Is It and Why It’s So Good! first appeared on Processed-Free America.
“Maple Butter” (also called “Maple Cream”) is a form of pure maple syrup that is spreadable—but there is no actual butter, cream, or anything else in it other than the …
The post Maple Butter: What Is It and Why It’s So Good! first appeared on Processed-Free America.
One of the rarest herbal teas in the world, Mamaki is an ancient herbal tea grown only in Hawaii. Used for centuries by native Hawaiians for its health benefits, this …
The post Mamaki Tea from Hawaii Brings Big Health Benefits to Mainland first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Sardines are small saltwater fish with huge health benefits. They’re rich in essential nutrients that play a central role in heart health, blood sugar management and thyroid function. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the many benefits of sardines and some easy ways to incorporate them into your meals.
Link to Purchase Sardines: https://amzn.to/3MDdKhr
Sardine Recipes: https://cleanplates.com/recipes/canned-sardines/
The post The Nutritional Benefits of Sardines first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Two studies found that watermelon consumption is linked to higher nutrient intake and better heart health. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of these studies and why watermelon is so good for cardiovascular function.
References:
Fulgoni, K., & Fulgoni, V. L. (2022). Watermelon intake is associated with increased nutrient intake and higher diet quality in adults and children, NHANES 2003–2018. Nutrients, 14(22), 4883. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/22/4883
Matthews, R., Early, K. S., Vincellette, C. M., Losso, J., Spielmann, G., Irving, B. A., & Allerton, T. D. (2023). The effect of watermelon juice supplementation on heart rate variability and metabolic response during an oral glucose challenge: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial. Nutrients, 15(4), 810. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/4/810
The post Watermelon Consumption is Linked to Better Heart Health first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Past studies have shown that children worldwide eat considerably less fruits and vegetables than the recommended amount, putting them at increased risk for chronic disease. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of a new study that reveals how to get kids to eat more fruits and veggies on a daily basis.Reference:Dallacker, M., Knobl, V., Hertwig, R., & Mata, J. (2023). Effect of longer family meals on children’s fruit and vegetable intake. JAMA Network Open, 6(4), e236331. https://doi.org/https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2802987.If you are interested in teaching age appropriate nutrition classes to children in your community, please click below to read information about our Processed-Free Facilitator Training Program: https://processedfreeamerica.org/certified-processed-free-facilitator-training/.The post New Study Reveals an Easy Strategy for Getting Kids to Eat More Fruits and Veggies first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study reveals that the breast milk of mothers following vegetarian and vegan diets is deficient in the crucial omega-3 fatty acid called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), leading researchers to call for raised awareness and DHA supplementation for mothers who follow plant-based diets that do not include food sources of DHA. Listen in this week as Dee explains the crucial role of DHA in both babies and adults, and why DHA supplements may be important in vegan and vegetarian diets.
Reference:
Ureta-Velasco, N., Keller, K., Escuder-Vieco, D., Fontecha, J., Calvo, M. V., Megino-Tello, J., Serrano, J. C., Romero Ferreiro, C., García-Lara, N. R., & Pallás-Alonso, C. R. (2023). Human milk composition and nutritional status of omnivore human milk donors compared with vegetarian/vegan lactating mothers. Nutrients, 15(8), 1855. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/8/1855
Link to purchase Algae Oil Supplements: https://amzn.to/3LhDteL
The post The Importance of DHA During Pregnancy and Lactation, Especially for Vegetarians and Vegans first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study reveals that the breast milk of mothers following vegetarian and vegan diets is deficient in the crucial omega-3 fatty acid called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), leading researchers to call for raised awareness and DHA supplementation for mothers who follow plant-based diets that do not include food sources of DHA. Listen in this week as Dee explains the crucial role of DHA in both babies and adults, and why DHA supplements may be important in vegan and vegetarian diets.
Reference:
Ureta-Velasco, N., Keller, K., Escuder-Vieco, D., Fontecha, J., Calvo, M. V., Megino-Tello, J., Serrano, J. C., Romero Ferreiro, C., García-Lara, N. R., & Pallás-Alonso, C. R. (2023). Human milk composition and nutritional status of omnivore human milk donors compared with vegetarian/vegan lactating mothers. Nutrients, 15(8), 1855. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/8/1855
Link to purchase Algae Oil Supplements: https://amzn.to/3LhDteL
The post The Importance of DHA During Pregnancy and Lactation, Especially for Vegetarians and Vegans first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Transglutaminase, also called “meat glue” is a common additive used in many foods because it works to bind protein molecules from various different substances so they “”stick” and hold together. Listen in this week as Dee explains how transglutaminase works in foods, the types of foods it typically shows up in, and whether or not it’s safe to eat.
The post What is “Meat Glue”? Is it Safe to Eat? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Gout is a chronic arthritic condition caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood that crystallizes and deposits into the fluid surrounding the joints, resulting in excruciating joint pain. New preliminary research shows that a particular probiotic strain called Ligilactobacillus salivarius CECT 30632, has the ability to lower uric acid levels. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the details of the study and the other dietary measures that can reduce gout flare-ups.
Reference:
Rodríguez, J. M., Garranzo, M., Segura, J., Orgaz, B., Arroyo, R., Alba, C., Beltrán, D., & Fernández, L. (2023). A randomized pilot trial assessing the reduction of gout episodes in hyperuricemic patients by oral administration of ligilactobacillus salivarius CECT 30632, a strain with the ability to degrade purines. Frontiers in Microbiology, 14. https://doi.org/https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1111652/full
Link to Video of Dee on Gout: https://processedfreeamerica.org/dee-talks-about-gout/
The post New Study Shows a Specific Probiotic Strain Helps Alleviate Gout Flare-Ups first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Gout is a chronic arthritic condition caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood that crystallizes and deposits into the fluid surrounding the joints, resulting in excruciating joint pain. New preliminary research shows that a particular probiotic strain called Ligilactobacillus salivarius CECT 30632, has the ability to lower uric acid levels. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the details of the study and the other dietary measures that can reduce gout flare-ups.
Reference:
Rodríguez, J. M., Garranzo, M., Segura, J., Orgaz, B., Arroyo, R., Alba, C., Beltrán, D., & Fernández, L. (2023). A randomized pilot trial assessing the reduction of gout episodes in hyperuricemic patients by oral administration of ligilactobacillus salivarius CECT 30632, a strain with the ability to degrade purines. Frontiers in Microbiology, 14. https://doi.org/https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1111652/full
Link to Video of Dee on Gout: https://processedfreeamerica.org/dee-talks-about-gout/
The post New Study Shows a Specific Probiotic Strain Helps Alleviate Gout Flare-Ups first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Water buffalo milk and its products, yogurt and cheese, have become a recent trend from Spain to various part of the U.S., appearing on the shelves of natural food markets and specialty online stores. Listen in this week as Dee discusses why the milk from water buffaloes is considered a healthier alternative to cow’s milk.Purchase Buffalo Milk Cheese and Yogurt: https://www.annabella.com/https://www.bufcreamery.com/.Diet Science Podcast about A2 Milk:https://processedfreeamerica.org/got-a2-milk/.The post Why Water Buffalo Milk is Making a Splash first appeared on Processed-Free America.
The fatty acids in walnuts have long been known to have heart health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. However, a new study shows the heart health benefits may be due to a particular gut bacteria produced when walnuts are consumed. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the details of the study and what it means for the future of heart health.
References:
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). (2023, March 25). The heart benefits of walnuts likely come from the gut. EurekAlert!. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/983066
Lamontagne, N. D. (2023, March 25). The heart benefits of walnuts likely come from the gut. American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. https://www.asbmb.org/asbmb-today/science/032523/heart-benefits-walnuts-gut
The post New Study Shows Walnut Consumption Produces a Unique Probiotic Bacteria that Benefits Heart Health first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Panela is a type of unrefined sugar completely hand made in Colombia using traditional methods. Studies dating back to the 1930’s show many health benefits from moderate consumption of Panela. Listen in this week as Dee talks about how this sugar is made and the nutrients in Panela that provide its health benefits. In the U.S., Panela costs more than white sugar, but it is worth the price.
References:
Jaffé, W. R. (2012). Health effects of non-centrifugal sugar (NCS): A review. Sugar Tech, 14(2), 87–94. https://link-springer-com.uws.idm.oclc.org/article/10.1007/s12355-012-0145-1
Insider Business. (2023, March 14). Why Indigenous Panela Sugar Is So Expensive [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-6aMgTX1rxA&ab_channel=InsiderBusiness
Link to purchase Panela: https://amzn.to/432uF4o
The post Benefits of Panela Sugar first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Two recent systematic review articles examining clinical trials on the three most common types of intermittent fasting (IF) concluded that weight loss achieved by IF was comparable to weight loss achieved by a moderate-calorie diet. Also, the time of the last meal of the day has a significant impact on the amount of weight loss. Listen in this week as Dee talks about the results of these clinical trials and what it means for your approach to weight loss.
Reference:
Diet Science’s 2018 Intermittent Fasting Podcast: https://processedfreeamerica.org/%e2%80%8b%e2%80%8bis-intermittent-fasting-a-way-to-achieve-long-term-health/
Varady, K. A., Cienfuegos, S., Ezpeleta, M., & Gabel, K. (2022). Clinical application of intermittent fasting for weight loss: Progress and future directions. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 18(5), 309–321. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41574-022-00638-x
Ye, Y.-F., Zhang, M.-X., Lin, Z., & Tang, L. (2022). Is intermittent fasting better than continuous energy restriction for adults with overweight and obesity? Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy, Volume 15, 2813–2826. https://www.dovepress.com/getfile.php?fileID=83944
The post Weight Loss Achieved with Intermittent Fasting is on a Par with Traditional Dieting Approaches first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Two recent systematic review articles examining clinical trials on the three most common types of intermittent fasting (IF) concluded that weight loss achieved by IF was comparable to weight loss achieved by a moderate-calorie diet. Also, the time of the last meal of the day has a significant impact on the amount of weight loss. Listen in this week as Dee talks about the results of these clinical trials and what it means for your approach to weight loss.
Reference:
Diet Science’s 2018 Intermittent Fasting Podcast: https://processedfreeamerica.org/%e2%80%8b%e2%80%8bis-intermittent-fasting-a-way-to-achieve-long-term-health/
Varady, K. A., Cienfuegos, S., Ezpeleta, M., & Gabel, K. (2022). Clinical application of intermittent fasting for weight loss: Progress and future directions. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 18(5), 309–321. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41574-022-00638-x
Ye, Y.-F., Zhang, M.-X., Lin, Z., & Tang, L. (2022). Is intermittent fasting better than continuous energy restriction for adults with overweight and obesity? Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy, Volume 15, 2813–2826. https://www.dovepress.com/getfile.php?fileID=83944
The post Weight Loss Achieved with Intermittent Fasting is on a Par with Traditional Dieting Approaches first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study has found a strong association between consumption of erythritol (a zero calorie sweetener used in many sugar-free products) and blood clotting, stroke, heart attack and death. Listen in this week as Dee talks about the details of this study and what it means for your health.
Reference:
Witkowski, M., Nemet, I., Alamri, H., Wilcox, J., Gupta, N., Nimer, N., Haghikia, A., Li, X. S., Wu, Y., Saha, P. P., Demuth, I., König, M., Steinhagen-Thiessen, E., Cajka, T., Fiehn, O., Landmesser, U., Tang, W. H., & Hazen, S. L. The artificial sweetener erythritol and cardiovascular event risk. Nature Medicine (2023).https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-02-02223-9
The post New Study Shows Erythritol is Linked to Heart Attack and Stroke first appeared on Processed-Free America.
The authors of a new study make the case that Alzheimer’s disease is driven by diet, and that an evolutionary survival response to forage for food triggered by the production of fructose in the brain back in cave man days has now gone haywire due to the abundance of fructose in the modern food supply. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of the study, and what this means for prevention and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Reference:
Johnson, R. J., Tolan, D. R., Bredesen, D., Nagel, M., Sánchez-Lozada, L. G., Fini, M., Burtis, S., Lanaspa, M. A., & Perlmutter, D. (2023). Could Alzheimer’s disease be a maladaptation of an evolutionary survival pathway mediated by intracerebral fructose and uric acid metabolism? The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 117(3), 455–466. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.01.002
The post New Study Shows Fructose is a Fuel for Formation of Alzheimer’s disease first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Intermittent fasting has gained popularity in recent years as a viable weight loss strategy. But is skipping the morning meal really necessary for dropping pounds? Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of a new study comparing intermittent fasting to portion control, and the meat timing strategy that works best for most people.
Reference:
Zhao, D., Guallar, E., Woolf, T. B., Martin, L., Lehmann, H., Coughlin, J., Holzhauer, K., Goheer, A. A., McTigue, K. M., Lent, M. R., Hawkins, M., Clark, J. M., & Bennett, W. L. (2023). Association of eating and sleeping intervals with weight change over time: The Daily24 cohort. Journal of the American Heart Association, 12(3), 12:e026484. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/epub/10.1161/JAHA.122.026484
The post New Study Shows Portion Control Beats Intermittent Fasting for Weight Loss first appeared on Processed-Free America.
In her book The Science of Skinny, Dee claimed the invention of trans fats as the worst nutritional disaster in history. Now a new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) agrees. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the new report, why the WHO is calling for a global ban on trans fats, and what you can do to avoid trans fats in your foods.
Reference:
World Health Organization Department of Nutrition and Food Safety. (2023). Countdown to 2023: WHO report on global trans-fat elimination 2022. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240067233
The post The World Health Organization Names Trans-Fats a “Toxic Chemical that Kills” first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Ironically, the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025 that is taught in schools across the country, is not modeled in the school meal program. Added sugars in school meals far exceed the Guidelines. Now, the USDA has proposed a new plan to bring nutrition standards for school meals into alignment. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the new plan and how you can ensure you’re not exceeding the guidelines in your home meals.
Reference:
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. (2023, February). Rapid Health Impact Assessment on Changes to School Nutrition Standards to Align with 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QbRfFK9euGwpkQusH2wue9J7ny7gkQ9f/view
The post USDA Finally Aiming to Reduce Added Sugar in School Meals first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Grapes contain a myriad of phytonutrients that protect against many diseases. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of a recent study that showed how eating a specific amount of grapes defends against the UV sun rays that lead to sunburn.
Reference:
Pezzuto, J. M., Dave, A., Park, E.-J., Beyoğlu, D., & Idle, J. R. (2022). Short-term grape consumption diminishes UV-induced skin erythema. Antioxidants, 11(12), 2372. https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/11/12/2372
The post Are Grapes a Natural Sunscreen? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Several studies show that consumption of up to 1.5 liter a day of silicon-rich mineral water offers clinically significant protection against cognitive decline. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the results of the study and why silica in particular is the curative mineral in water that protects against dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Links to Study Reference:
Abstract: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22976072/
Full Text: https://vaccinepapers.org/wp-content/uploads/Silicon-Rich-Mineral-Water-as-a-NonInvasive-Test-of-the-Aluminum-Hypothesis-in-Alzheimers-Disease.pdf
Link to Volvic Water: https://amzn.to/3Y4qBNH
Link to Volvic Water Mineral Content: https://www.volvic.co.uk/products/natural-mineral-water/volvic-natural-mineral-water/natural-mineral-water-500ml
The post Six Cups of Mineral Water a Day Could Keep Alzheimer’s Away first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A team of British scientists have spent the last 14 years experimenting with genetically engineering a tomato that contains significantly higher levels of anthocyanins, a phytonutrient gives many fruits and vegetables their red, purple, or blue flesh or peel–such as blueberries, strawberries, eggplant, and red cabbages. It has recently been approved by the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) for U.S. import and cultivation. Listen in this week as Dee discusses how this purple tomato was genetically modified, and whether this is a concern or a benefit to your health.
Reference:
https://www.nongmoproject.org/blog/new-gmo-alert-purple-tomato-recently-approved-for-u-s-import-and-cultivation/#:~:text=The%20company%20says%20about%20half,(as%20a%20flavanol%20activator).
The post GMO Purple Tomato Coming to a Market Near You in 2023 first appeared on Processed-Free America.
People who live in longevity hot spots called “Blue Zones” live up to a decade longer than average Americans. After researchers analyzed dietary surveys of the daily eating habits of people in the blue zones over the past 80 years, there were five common foods included in their diets. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the five pillars of a longevity diet, and how these foods contribute to long life.
Reference:
Longo, V. D., & Anderson, R. M. (2022). Nutrition, longevity and disease: From molecular mechanisms to interventions. Cell, 185(9), 1455–1470. https://tinyurl.com/yfhzpad5
Link to The Blue Zones American Kitchen: 100 Recipes to Live to 100. https://amzn.to/3GB5c7S
The post The Five Pillars of a Longevity Diet first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Macambo beans are a cousin to cacao beans, with similar nutritional benefits. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the nutritional benefits of this crunchy snack bean that is taking the superfood world by storm!
Link to purchase Macambo Beans: https://amzn.to/3Xxo9zl
The post Meet the Macambo Bean! first appeared on Processed-Free America.
You’ve likely heard of prebiotics and probiotics. But what are postbiotics, and what do they do? Listen in this week as Dee discusses all three “biotics” and how postbiotics are quickly taking the spotlight as the major player in overall health.
Link to 3-in-1 Complete Probiotics: https://amzn.to/3WbpgUi
The post Postbiotics: The Future of Gut Health first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study shows that eating more flavonols, a class of antioxidant compounds that protect cells and neurons, may slow your rate of memory loss. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the study and which flavonols contain the most flavonols for prevention of memory loss.
Link to study:
Holland, T. M., Agarwal, P., Wang, Y., Dhana, K., Leurgans, S. E., Shea, K., Booth, S. L., Rajan, K., Schneider, J. A., & Barnes, L. L. (2022). Association of dietary intake of flavonols with changes in global cognition and several cognitive abilities. Neurology. https://doi.org/10.1212/wnl.0000000000201541
The post Don’t Forget the Flavonols! first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Fagopyrum tataricum, also known as Tartary Buckwheat, is a gluten-free psuedo-grain sibling to common buckwheat, but with a more powerful nutrient profile. Listen in this week as Dee discusses why …
The post Big Health Benefits of Tartary Buckwheat first appeared on Processed-Free America.
That is the question French researchers sought to answer in their 3-month study on overweight adults. Listen in this week as Dee deciphers the results of this study and how …
The post Does a Probiotic from Raw Cheese Improve Weight Loss? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
If you’re a fan of raw apple cider vinegar, you’ll be surprised to learn that pumpkins can be fermented into a similarly nutritious vinegar too. Listen in this week as …
The post Pumped Up Benefits of Pumpkin Vinegar first appeared on Processed-Free America.
When foods like potatoes and rice are cooked and then cooled, their starch molecules undergo rearrangement to become less “starchy”. Listen in this week as Dee explains the concept of …
The post What is Retrograded Resistant Starch? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Psyllium is best known for its ability to aid in digestive health, but it has also been clinically proven to lower cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure. Listen in this …
The post Psyllium Husk: A Super Functional Fiber first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Psyllium is best known for its ability to aid in digestive health, but it has also been clinically proven to lower cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure. Listen in this …
The post Psyllium Husk: A Super Functional Fiber first appeared on Processed-Free America.
There’s a lot of nutrition packed into these tiny little seeds, and the chia seed trend is making a splash with a new generation now. Listen in this week as …
The post Chia Seeds are Making a Comeback Again! first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Our eyes need nourishment to keep them moist so that we can have crisp, clear vision. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the foods that provide nourishment for your …
The post Foods That Are Good for Your Eyes first appeared on Processed-Free America.
Pickling and Fermenting are two techniques used to preserve fruits or vegetables in jars. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the important differences between these two techniques when it comes to …
The post What is the Difference Between Pickles and Fermented Cucumbers? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study comparing daily consumption of cocao versus multivitamins shows the multivitamins improved brain function in older adults, and the benefit was greater for those with a history of …
The post Taking a Daily Multivitamin Linked to Improved Cognitive Function in Older Adults first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study published in the journal Cell, showed that consuming saccharin and sucralose harms the ability of healthy adults to dispose of glucose in their body. The study also looked at the effect of …
The post Peer Reviewed Study Finds Two Common Artificial Sweeteners Raise Blood Sugar Levels and Should Not Be Assumed Safe first appeared on Processed-Free America.
If your goal in selecting plant-based meat alternatives is better health, then you’ll want to know which one can get you there. Listen in this week as Dee discusses a …
The post Shopping for Plant-Based Meat Alternatives–Which are Best? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A 2015 study published in the journal Science found that high doses of vitamin C impaired growth of colon cancer tumors that have previously resisted other treatments. Listen in this …
The post Is High-Dose Vitamin C a Viable Treatment for Cancer? first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study published in Mayo Clinic Proceedings showed that lower intake of calcium and potassium leads to high odds of developing kidney stones. Listen in this week as Dee …
The post Diet High in Calcium and Potassium Helps Prevent Kidney Stones first appeared on Processed-Free America.
If you enjoy eating jackfruit as a meat alternative, you’ll want to know about banana blossoms. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the purple flower with a surprisingly flaky …
The post Bountiful Benefits of Banana Blossoms first appeared on Processed-Free America.
The Paleo Diet has long been touted as a diet that did not contain potatoes, beans or other starchy foods. New research now shows that likely wasn’t the case. Listen …
The post New Research Shows Paleolithic Diet Contained Starchy Foods first appeared on Processed-Free America.
A new study has found that potassium-rich diets were associated with lower blood pressure, particularly in women with high salt intake. Three specific foods had the most benefit. Listen in …
The post Three High-Potassium Foods Shown to “Counter” Effects of Salt in the Diet first appeared on Processed-Free America.
The idea that exercising more can mitigate the effects of eating a poor diet is being put to rest. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the research, and how the synergy …
The post Research Shows Exercise Does Not Counteract Detrimental Effects of a Poor Diet first appeared on Processed-Free America.