Diet Science

​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

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 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

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

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

If you're struggling with fatigue, chronic constipation, 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/

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

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.htmlHere'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

A staple of the Native American diet for centuries, Red Cactus Pears are packed with incredible health benefits. Listen in this week as Dee discusses why this small, watermelon-like fruit is a true superfood, and how to incorporate it into your meals.Reference:Giraldo-Silva, L., Ferreira, B., Rosa, E., & Dias, A. C. P. (2023). Opuntia ficus-indica fruit: A systematic review of its phytochemicals and pharmacological activities. Plants, 12(3), 543. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9919935/Link to Red Cactus Pear Fact Sheet: https://www.friedas.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/CactusPearsFactSheetNL.pdf

Known as the "universal antioxidant," alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerhouse for fighting oxidative stress and supporting overall health. Listen in this week as Dee explores how ALA helps combat diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer's, fatty liver, and more—plus, why it's essential for your metabolism!Reference:Salehi, B., Berkay Yılmaz, Y., Antika, G., Boyunegmez Tumer, T., Fawzi Mahomoodally, M., Lobine, D., Akram, M., Riaz, M., Capanoglu, E., Sharopov, F., Martins, N., Cho, W. C., & Sharifi-Rad, J. (2019). Insights on the use of α-lipoic acid for therapeutic purposes. Biomolecules, 9(8), 356. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6723188/Link to purchase Alpha Lipoic Acid: https://amzn.to/43FqMFh

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles—smaller than a grain of sand—shed from bottles, bags, tires, synthetic fabrics, and even cosmetics. Linked to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer's, and cancer, these invisible invaders are everywhere. Listen in this week as Dee shares nutrition and detox strategies to help clear them from your body.Reference:Marfella, R., Prattichizzo, F., Sardu, C., Fulgenzi, G., Graciotti, L., Spadoni, T., D'Onofrio, N., Scisciola, L., La Grotta, R., Frigé, C., Pellegrini, V., Municinò, M., Siniscalchi, M., Spinetti, F., Vigliotti, G., Vecchione, C., Carrizzo, A., Accarino, G., Squillante, A., . . . Paolisso, G. (2024). Microplastics and nanoplastics in atheromas and cardiovascular events. New England Journal of Medicine, 390(10), 900–910. https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMoa2309822

Could eating a simple bowl of grapes be the key to stronger muscles? A groundbreaking study says yes—especially in aging women. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the findings of this new research ane explores how the 1,600 natural compounds in grapes work together to support lean muscle mass, why these findings matter for healthy aging, and what it could mean for yyour health.Reference:Dave, A., Park, E., Piya, S., & Pezzuto, J. M. (2025). Long-term dietary consumption of grapes alters phenotypic expression in skeletal muscle of aged male and female mice. Foods, 14(4), 695. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14040695

Could your breakfast choice set the tone for sharper thinking all day long? A new study says yes, especially if your breakfast includes walnuts. Listen in this week as Dee breaks down the science behind this brain-boosting nut and how you can easily incorporate it into your diet for lasting cognitive benefits.Reference:Bell, L., Dodd, G. F., Jeavons, M., Fisher, D. R., Whyte, A. R., Shukitt-Hale, B., & Williams, C. M. (2025). The impact of a walnut-rich breakfast on cognitive performance and brain activity throughout the day in healthy young adults: A crossover intervention trial. Food & Function. https://doi.org/10.1039/d4fo04832f Link to Dee's Breakfast Recipe: https://processedfreeamerica.org/10625-2/

A recent study suggests that long-term yogurt consumption, which typically contains a genus of probiotic Bifidobacterium, is associated with a 20% decreased incidence of colorectal cancer. Listen in this week as Dee explains how Bifidobacterium works in the gut, why it may protect against the formation of tumors, and how much yogurt you need to eat each week to get the same amount reported in the study.References:Ugai, S., Liu, L., Kosumi, K., Kawamura, H., Hamada, T., Mima, K., Arima, K., Okadome, K., Yao, Q., Matsuda, K., Zhong, Y., Mizuno, H., Chan, A. T., Garrett, W. S., Song, M., Giannakis, M., Giovannucci, E. L., Zhang, X., Ogino, S., & Ugai, T. (2025). Long-term yogurt intake and colorectal cancer incidence subclassified by Bifidobacterium abundance in tumor. Gut Microbes, 17(1). https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/19490976.2025.2452237Link to Probiotics: https://amzn.to/41jCNyP

February is Heart Health Month, making it the perfect time to explore the power of nutrition to naturally lower high blood pressure. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the research showing how adding one or more of three powerhouse red juices--beet juice, tomato juice, and pomegranate juice--to your diet can help keep your blood pressure in check and support overall cardiovascular health.References: Benjamim, C. J. R., Porto, A. A., Valenti, V. E., Sobrinho, A. C. D. S., Garner, D. M., Gualano, B., & Bueno Júnior, C. R. (2022). Nitrate derived from beetroot juice lowers blood pressure in patients with arterial hypertension: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Nutrition, 9, 823039. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2022.823039Odai, T., Terauchi, M., Okamoto, D., Hirose, A., & Miyasaka, N. (2019). Unsalted tomato juice intake improves blood pressure and serum low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol level in local Japanese residents at risk of cardiovascular disease. Food Science & Nutrition, 7(7), 2271–2279. https://doi.org/10.1002/fsn3.1066 Sahebkar, A., Ferri, C., Giorgini, P., Bo, S., Nachtigal, P., & Grassi, D. (2016). Effects of pomegranate juice on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Pharmacological Research, 115, 149–161. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phrs.2016.11.018

Acetylcholine enhances memory, focus, and muscle function, earning its reputation as a natural nootropic. But, as we age, the body's ability to produce it declines, potentially impacting brain health and physical performance. Listen in this week as Dee explains how acetylcholine is made in the body, and practical ways to boost its production through diet and supplementation. Reference:Nakazaki, E., Mah, E., Sanoshy, K., Citrolo, D., & Watanabe, F. (2021). Citicoline and memory function in healthy older adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Nutrition, 151(8), 2153–2160. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S002231662200267X?via%3DihubLink to purchase choline supplement: https://amzn.to/40Mmg6c

A century ago, goiters resulting from iodine deficiency were rampant in people living in inland states from Appalachia and the Great Lakes to the northwest United States---an area that came to be known as the "goiter belt." Iodized salt solved that problem. But now iodine deficiency and goiters are making a comeback in the U.S. Listen in this week as Dee discusses why this is happening and how to ensure you get enough iodine in your diet without iodized salt.Reference:Hatch-McChesney, A., & Lieberman, H. R. (2022). Iodine and iodine deficiency: A comprehensive review of a re-emerging issue. Nutrients, 14(17), 3474. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9459956/Link to Purchase Gourmet Seaweed Seasoning Salt: https://tinyurl.com/gourmetseasoningsalt

In response to a 2022 color additive petition from consumer advocacy groups, the FDA has finally put a ban on the use of food dye no. 3, a synthetic food coloring linked to health risks like hyperactivity and cancer. Listen in this week as Dee discusses this long-overdue decision and what it means for your health.Reference:U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2025, January 15). FDA to revoke authorization for the use of red no. 3 in food and ingested drugs. https://www.fda.gov/food/hfp-constituent-updates/fda-revoke-authorization-use-red-no-3-food-and-ingested-drugs Link to our petition against this additive in 2011:https://processedfreeamerica.org/center-submits-arguments-against-artificial-food-coloring/

Celery root (aka celeriac) is an underrated vegetable with big health benefits  Listen in this week as Dee explores what makes celery root special, from how it grows and what it tastes like to its impressive nutrition profile. She'll also share the best ways to prepare it, how it differs from celery stalks, and why it deserves a spot in your kitchen. Link to Celery Root Mash Recipe: https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/celery_root_mash/Reference:Varotariya, K., & Selvakumar, R. (2023). Celeriac: The unsung vegetable. Department of Agriculture Development & Farmers' Welfare, Farm Information Bureau, Government of Kerala, 10(11). https://www.researchgate.net/publication/379759363_Celeriac_The_unsung_Vegetable

In the midst of cold and flu season, zinc is a powerhouse mineral essential for a strong immune system. It is also important for wound healing, testosterone production, and even your sense of taste and smell. Listen in this week as Dee dives into everything you need to know to harness the benefits of zinc, from the top food sources, best types of zinc supplements, and strategies to boost absorption.Reference:Kiouri, D. P., Tsoupra, E., Peana, M., Perlepes, S. P., Stefanidou, M. E., & Chasapis, C. T. (2023). Multifunctional role of zinc in human health: An update. Experimental and Clinical Sciences Journal, 22, 809–827. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10539547/Link to purchase zinc picolinate supplement: https://amzn.to/4h4feiB

Two studies published in the same week reveal how seed oils like canola, corn, soy and cottonseed may increase inflammation, creating a pathway for cancer to thrive. On the flip side, omega-3-rich fish oils show promise in reducing inflammation and bolstering the immune system. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the science behind these findings and their potential impact on your health.References:Aronson, W. J., Grogan, T., Liang, P., Jardack, P., Liddell, A. R., Perez, C., Elashoff, D., Said, J., Cohen, P., Marks, L. S., & Henning, S. M. (2024). High omega-3, low omega-6 diet with fish oil for men with prostate cancer on active surveillance: The CAPFISH-3 randomized clinical trial. Journal of Clinical Oncology, JCO2400608. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.24.00608Soundararajan, R., Maurin, M. M., Rodriguez-Silva, J., Upadhyay, G., Alden, A. J., Gowda, S. G. B., Schell, M. J., Yang, M., Levine, N. J., Gowda, D., Sundaraswamy, P. M., Hui, S., Pflieger, L., Wang, H., Marcet, J., Martinez, C., Bennett, R. D., Chudzinski, A., Karachristos, A., . . . Yeatman, T. J. (2024). Integration of lipidomics with targeted, single cell, and spatial transcriptomics defines an unresolved pro-inflammatory state in colon cancer. Gut, gutjnl-332535. https://doi.org/10.1136/gutjnl-2024-332535

Peeling Back the Benefits: The Wonders of Banana Peel FlourMost people discard banana peels and only eat the fruit inside. However, research shows that the peels of bananas have many health benefits when dried and ground into flour. Listen in this week as Dee discusses this sustainable, nutrient-rich flour and some creative ways to incorporate banana peel flour into your recipes while reducing food waste and supporting a healthier lifestyle.Reference:Shafi, A., Ahmad, F., & Mohammad, Z. H. (2022). Effect of the addition of banana peel flour on the shelf life and antioxidant properties of cookies. ACS Food Science & Technology, 2(8), 1355–1363. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsfoodscitech.2c00159

It is widely known that episodes of high stress, even short ones, temporarily impair artery function. To make things worse, people often eat high-fat foods in times of stress, which puts more stress on the cardiovascular system. Listen in this week as Dee discusses a study showing how drinking a special kind of cacao drink may be the antidote to the cardio impacts of high stress and high fat meals.Reference:Baynham, R., Veldhuijzen van Zanten, J. J. C. S. V., & Rendeiro, C. (2024). Cocoa flavanols rescue stress-induced declines in endothelial function after a high-fat meal, but do not affect cerebral oxygenation during stress in young, healthy adults. Food & Function, 15(23), 11472–11490. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2024/fo/d4fo03834g

Why do people regain weight more quickly than expected after successfully losing it? Research shows that once someone has been overweight or obese, the genes in their fat cells undergo changes, creating a "memory" of the overweight state. This makes it easier for the body to return to that state. Listen in this week as Dee discusses this fascinating research, and what it means for long term weight loss maintenance.Reference:Hinte, L. C., Castellano-Castillo, D., Ghosh, A., Melrose, K., Gasser, E., Noé, F., Massier, L., Dong, H., Sun, W., Hoffmann, A., Wolfrum, C., Rydén, M., Mejhert, N., Blüher, M., & Von Meyenn, F. (2024). Adipose tissue retains an epigenetic memory of obesity after weight loss. Nature, (2024). https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08165-7

Reducing sugar intake not only protects you from the negative effects of overconsumption but also offers surprising benefits that you can experience quickly. Listen in this week as Dee discusses which conditions can be improved by reducing sugar—and what you can do to start limiting your sugar intake today.Reference:Austin, D. (2024, November 18). Giving up sugar can change your body for the better—within days. National Geographic. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/health-benefits-of-reducing-sugar

A promising change for the USDA's 2025 Dietary Guidelines to suggest limiting or avoiding ultra-processed foods has been dashed. A scientific advisory committee has declared there is not enough evidence to recommend avoiding them. Listen in this week as Dee discusses how they came to their conclusion, and why she and many experts disagree with it.Reference: Callahan, A. (2024, November 14). Why the next dietary guidelines might not tackle ultraprocessed foods. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/06/well/eat/ultraprocessed-foods-dietary-guidelines.html

While its caffeine content is known for improving cognitive function, the true heroes of coffee are its antioxidants and polyphenols. These compounds may help to ward off or reverse many chronic conditions, proving coffee to be more than just an energizing beverage.Listen in this week as Dee discusses how your morning brew might be contributing to your health in surprising ways!Reference: Kolb, H., Kempf, K., & Martin, S. (2020). Health effects of coffee: Mechanism unraveled?. Nutrients, 12(6), 1842. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7353358/

Does beer have a secret superpower? Research shows that moderate, mindful beer enjoyment might be a little healthier than you think. Listen in this week as Dee discusses the research showing the health benefits of the bitter acids and polyphenols found in the compounds that also give beer its flavor and aroma. Reference: Carbone, K., & Gervasi, F. (2022). An updated review of the genus Humulus: A valuable source of bioactive compounds for health and disease prevention. Plants, 11(24), 3434. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9782902/

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen tool, and they're generally considered a safer way to create a crispy texture to foods than deep frying, but they do still pose some health risks. Listen in this week as Dee offers valuable insights on the pros and cons of preparing food in an air fryer.Reference: De Oliveira, V. S., Viana, D. S. B., Keller, L. M., De Melo, M. T. T., Mulandeza, O. F., Barbosa, M. I. M. J., Júnior, J. L. B., & Saldanha, T. (2024). Impact of air frying on food lipids: Oxidative evidence, current research, and insights into domestic mitigation by natural antioxidants. Trends in Food Science & Technology, 147, 104465. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0924224424001419

'Tis the season for pumping up immune health with pumpkin seeds! Listen in this week as Dee explains the differences between green pumpkin seeds (also known as pepitas) and white pumpkins seeds, and howi Incorporating pumpkin seeds into your diet can give your immune system a natural boost and help your body stay resilient.Reference: Hussain, A., Kausar, T., Sehar, S., Sarwar, A., Quddoos, M. Y., Aslam, J., Liaqat, A., Siddique, T., An, Q. U., Kauser, S., Rehman, A., & Nisar, R. (2023). A review on biochemical constituents of pumpkin and their role as pharma foods; A key strategy to improve health in post COVID 19 period. Food Production, Processing and Nutrition, 5(1), 22. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10030350/

Grounding, also known as earthing, is a simple concept that involves connecting the human body with the energy naturally present in the earth. Listen in this week as Dee dives into the science behind its potential health benefits. Learn what earthing is, how it works, and why it may help reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and support overall well-being.References:Oschman, J. L., Chevalier, G., & Brown, R. (2015). The effects of grounding (earthing) on inflammation, the immune response, wound healing, and prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Journal of Inflammation Research, 8, 83–96. https://doi.org/10.2147/JIR.S69656Sinatra, S. T., Sinatra, D. S., Sinatra, S. W., & Chevalier, G. (2023). Grounding - The universal anti-inflammatory remedy. Biomedical Journal, 46(1), 11–16. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bj.2022.12.002

There is scant scientific evidence that compounds found in nightshade vegetables—such as tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and eggplants—aggravate the pain and inflammation of arthritis. However, some people with arthritis feel that eating nightshades make their condition worse...and decades of research by a horticulture professor at Rutgers University may explain why. Listen in this week as Dee dives into the science behind the connection and examines whether nightshades truly contribute to inflammation and joint pain. References:Childers N.F., & Margoles M.S. (1993). An apparent relation of nightshades(Solanaceae) to arthritis. Journal of Neurological and Orthopedic MedicalSurgery, 12, 227-231.Krasowski, M. D., McGehee, D. S., & Moss, J. (1997). Natural inhibitors of cholinesterases: Implications for adverse drug reactions. Canadian Journal of Anaesthesia, 44(5 Pt 1), 525–534. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2877586/

Unlike cow milk, camel milk has low levels of lactose, fat, and cholesterol, and is naturally non allergenic. Once only available in the middle east and Africa, farmers in the U.S. are now supplying this nutritious mil to Americans. Listen in this week as Dee explores its unique nutritional profile, including essential vitamins, minerals, and its potential to boost immunity and improve digestion. References:Ombarak, R. A., Hussein, E. O. S., Suliman, G., Alhimaidi, A. R., Ammari, A. A., Ba-Awadh, H., Taha, A. E., El-Tarabily, K. A., & Abd El-Hack, M. E. (2021). Nutritional, antimicrobial and medicinal properties of camel's milk: A review. Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 28(5), 3126–3136. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.02.057

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

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-informationCornucopia 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/

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

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

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 AGE Conundrum: Are Your Favorite Foods Harming You?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/

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-riskWitkowski, 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

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

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

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 

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/4cVqkVuReferences: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

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.2019.05.102Davis C. D. (2016). The gut microbiome and its role in obesity. Nutrition Today, 51(4), 167-174. https://doi.org/10.1097/NT.0000000000000167

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/ehw582Shan, 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 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

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 

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

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/1422-0067/22/12/6623Perraudeau, 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/e001319Link to purchase GLP-1 Probiotic: https://pendulumlife.com/products/glp-1-probiotic

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